Recognition Highlights Commitment to Responsible Shooting Activities by Beretta Brothers

WFSA Honors Beretta Brothers

On February 27, 2026, at the IWA OutdoorClassics in Nuremberg, Germany, the World Forum on Shooting Activities (WFSA) presented the esteemed Dr. Vito Genco Shooting Ambassador Award to brothers Franco and Pietro Gussalli Beretta. Franco Gussalli Beretta accepted the award on behalf of both siblings during a plenary session.

Tony Bernardo, president of the WFSA, expressed his pride in awarding this honor, stating, "It is an immense honor to present our highest award to individuals who embody the essence of our organization: excellence in hunting and sports shooting, and responsible firearm ownership among civilians." He further emphasized the significance of this recognition as it coincides with the 500th anniversary of Beretta, a prominent brand in the industry.

The Dr. Vito Genco Shooting Ambassador Award celebrates individuals who've made outstanding contributions to hunting and shooting sports worldwide. Past recipients include Olympic athletes, writers, and notable public figures such as U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. The Beretta brothers' receipt of this award highlights their profound impact on the shooting sports community and their commitment to the responsible use and promotion of firearms.

In a statement following the award acceptance, Franco Gussalli Beretta conveyed his gratitude, saying, “We are deeply honored to receive this award from the WFSA, an organization that promotes scientific research, tradition, values, and innovation within the global shooting community.” Franco holds the dual roles of president and CEO of Fabbrica d'Armi Pietro Beretta, while Pietro is the president and CEO of Beretta Holding. Together, they continue the legacy of a brand that was founded in 1526.

The plenary session also marked the 30th anniversary of the WFSA. Former president Graham Downing reflected on the organization's accomplishments, culminating in an honorary award given to Juergen Kohlheim for his extensive service on the executive committee. Discussions throughout the session included significant topics such as the shooting disciplines at the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, presented by ISSF Secretary General Alessandro Nicotra, and a proposed EU restriction on lead ammunition discussed by attorney Peter Sellar, who is also a consultant for AFEMS.

Additionally, an innovative database tool for international shooting policies was introduced by Charles Fowler, chair of the WFSA’s image committee, highlighting the organization's commitment to adapting to new challenges and fostering collaboration among shooting sports stakeholders.

The WFSA is an international non-governmental organization with consultative status from the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Founded in 1996, it comprises over 50 national, regional, and international organizations working to preserve hunting and shooting sports traditions through cooperation with governments and international institutions.

For more information about the WFSA, please visit www.wfsa.net.