Celebrating 30 Years of Fair Play Menarini Award with Bebe Vio and Fabio Caressa

Celebrating the 30th Edition of the Fair Play Menarini International Award

On July 2, 2026, the illustrious Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino in Florence will once again open its doors to honor the inspiring personalities in the world of sports at the Fair Play Menarini International Award. This year marks the 30th edition of the Award, and the addition of two remarkable figures, Bebe Vio and Fabio Caressa, amplifies the significance of this event.

Who Are the Stars of the Event?

Bebe Vio, a name synonymous with strength and resilience, is a celebrated figure in the world of Paralympic sports. As a multiple world and European foil medallist, she has made an indelible mark in fencing, standing as a beacon of inspiration to many. Her journey reflects a powerful narrative of courage, as she has embraced new challenges in Para-athletics while concurrently dedicating her efforts to the art4sport Foundation. This initiative focuses on providing prosthetics for children with disabilities, showcasing her commitment to improving lives through sport.

Alongside her, Fabio Caressa, one of Italy's finest sports commentators, will be honored with the Franco Lauro Special Award “Narrating Emotions”. Known for his captivating storytelling and vibrant commentary style, Caressa has been a part of Italy's sports narrative, heightening the viewer's experience during crucial moments in sports history. His contributions go beyond mere reporting; he creates an emotional connection between sports and fans, turning ordinary events into unforgettable memories.

A Rich Legacy of Awardees

In addition to Vio and Caressa, the lineup also includes distinguished awardees such as Armand Duplantis, Gianfranco Zola, and Gregorio Paltrinieri. The Award celebrates not only achievements in sports but also promotes values such as perseverance, commitment, and the spirit of fair play. The addition of these personalities emphasizes the commitment of the Fair Play Menarini Foundation to highlight the importance of both athletic excellence and emotional investment in sports.

Encouraging Future Talents

As part of the celebration, the Fair Play Menarini Special Fiamme Gialle “Study and Sport” Award will recognize the emerging talents in the sporting arena. This year, the accolade will be awarded to Azzurra Severini, a promising beach sprint rowing athlete and an outstanding student. This initiative aims to encourage the youth of today to find harmony between their academic pursuits and sports aspirations, exemplifying that success can be multifaceted.

Luca Lastrucci, Valeria Speroni Cardi, and Filippo Paganelli, board members of the Fair Play Menarini Foundation, expressed their pride in welcoming Vio and Caressa to the Fair Play family. They underline the critical role sports play in inspiring and uniting individuals through extraordinary achievements and storytelling.

Conclusion

The Fair Play Menarini International Award continues to be an essential platform that celebrates not just the victories on the field but also the incredible human stories behind them. The 30th edition is set to be a memorable event, where sportsmanship, dedication, and the power of narrative come together to inspire future generations. As we look forward to this remarkable celebration in Florence, we are reminded of the profound impact that sports can have on community and personal growth.