Fiesole, Italy, July 5, 2025 -- It was a night where history and legend intertwined, a time to honor the true values of ethics and fair play. The 29th Fair Play Menarini International Award ceremony took place at the Roman Theatre of Fiesole, a timeless space where culture and sports converge. The world's top sports stars, recognized for their exemplary loyalty, respect, and integrity both on and off the field, gathered together.
Fair Play Menarini International Award 2025
This year's winners included Luis Figo, an icon of soccer. Luis Figo won the Ballon d'Or while playing for Real Madrid and four consecutive Italian championships while playing for Inter Milan. He is considered to have redefined the role of a winger with his charisma and unparalleled skill. The award also paid tribute to Demetrio Albertini, a midfielder at the heart of his generation, and ‘Billy’ Costacurta, the legendary defender for AC Milan and the Italian national team. These individuals represent an era that left an indelible mark on football history.
Another recipient of this year's award is Gianmarco Tamberi, an Olympic and world high jump champion and the flag bearer for Italy at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He is regarded as a charismatic and inspiring athlete who transforms each competition into a moment of fun and value. Also honored was Arianna Errigo, a fencing legend and symbol of determination who dedicated her life to sports. Sasha Vujacic, who won two NBA championships with the LA Lakers, was also recognized. He is widely respected for his career built on determination, dedication, and respect.
Among others, high jump icon and two-time world champion Blanka Vlasic, Olympic judo gold medalist and new judo world champion Alice Bellandi, and Nadia Battocletti, who emerged as a rising star in middle-distance running by winning a silver medal in the Olympic 10,000 meters with her strength, strategy, and dedication, were also in attendance. Also in attendance was Andy Díaz, a triple jump powerhouse who has won an Olympic bronze medal and an indoor world title, and Rigivan Ganeshamoorthy, a Paralympic gold medalist in discus throw and a true example of strength and inspiration. The final honoree of the award ceremony was Guido Meda, the legendary commentator of MotoGP. He received the award in recognition of his years of passionate coverage of the races.
What made this event even more special were the three ambassadors who had previously won the Fair Play Menarini Award. They were five-time Olympic champion and swimming legend Ian Thorpe, Giancarlo Antognoni, the 1982 World Cup winner and a symbol of loyalty and pride for the city of Florence, and Fabrizio Donato, the bronze medalist in the 100-meter dash at the 2012 London Olympics, attended the ceremony, adding further significance to the event.
The ceremony was broadcast live on Sky TG24 and hosted by Rachele Sangiuliano, Federica Lodi, Michele Cagiano, and Omar Schillaci. Special commentary was provided by Federico Buffa, who highlighted the deeper meanings behind each story shared throughout the ceremony, adding an extra layer of emotion.
In addition to these outstanding champions, the recipients of the Fair Play Menarini ‘Young Athletes’ Award—Nicola Nardo, Michele Vivalda, and Alessandro Bugli—were also honored. Additionally, Margherita Voliani, recipient of the Special Fiamme Gialle ‘Study and Sport’ Award, also garnered attention. These two awards were established to recognize positive examples of fair play demonstrated by the younger generation. The awards were presented during a press conference held in June at the Italian Olympic Committee (C.O.N.I.) and the Tuscany Regional Government Office.
Valeria Speroni Cardi and Filippo Paganelli, members of the Fair Play Menarini Foundation Board of Directors, said, "The Fair Play Menarini Awards bring together inspiring stories that form a meaningful mosaic. Building on this energy, we are already preparing for the 30th edition and look forward to embarking on another wonderful journey with you in 2026."
The 29th Fair Play Menarini International Award was supported by institutional partner Istituto per il Credito Sportivo e Culturale (Institute for Sports and Cultural Credit) and initiative partners Sustenium, Frecciarossa, Estra, and Adiacent.
For more information on the winners, award ceremonies, highlights, and the latest news, please visit the official website https://www.fairplaymenarini.com/en and the award's social media channels on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
Fair Play Menarini International Award 2025
Fair Play Menarini International Award 2025
Fair Play Menarini International Award 2025
Fair Play Menarini International Award 2025
