The 30th Fair Play Menarini International Award officially kicked off today in Florence, Italy, celebrating athletes who have distinguished themselves through sporting achievements, respect, ethics, and loyalty. The event opened with a traditional gala dinner at Piazzale Michelangelo, setting the stage for two days dedicated to the core values of sport. The awards ceremony will culminate tomorrow at the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino.
2026 Award Winners Announced
Among the 2026 winners are Achille Polonara, a symbol of strength and resilience in Italian basketball; Antonella Palmisano, a brilliant star in race walking; and Armand Duplantis, the athlete who has redefined the boundaries of pole vaulting. Their names stand alongside Bebe Vio and Chiara Mazzel, true examples of determination and inclusion in Paralympic sports. Also taking the stage at the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino will be Daniele Garozzo, a star of international fencing; Gregorio Paltrinieri, a true icon of world swimming; and Simone Anzani, a pillar of volleyball. Furthermore, the trio of Davide Ghiotto, Michele Malfatti, and Andrea Giovannini, who brought back to Italy the Olympic gold medal in team pursuit speed skating after 20 years, will be joined by renowned sports journalist Fabio Caressa. Football will also take center stage, featuring legends who have thrilled fans across Europe: Diego Milito, Emilio Butragueño, and Gianfranco Zola.
Previous Winners Return
Alongside the new winners, the evening will bring back under the Fair Play Menarini spotlight several winners from previous editions, including Antonio Rossi, Giancarlo Antognoni, Ian Thorpe, Sasha Vujačić, Giacomo Perini, and Andrea Zorzi.
Foundation Statement
“Thirty years ago, a project was born with the ambition of placing the values of sport at the center. Today, we can say that those very same ideas are more relevant than ever,” stated Luca Lastrucci, Valeria Speroni Cardi, and Filippo Paganelli, members of the Board of the Fair Play Menarini Foundation. “Over the years, we have met extraordinary champions but, above all, exceptional human beings who have shown us that respecting the rules, opponents, and oneself represents the greatest success of all.”
Event Details and Broadcast
The evening will be hosted by Rachele Sangiuliano, Michele Cagiano, and Omar Schillaci, who will be joined by Federico Buffa to take the audience on a journey through some of the greatest stories in sport. The 2026 Fair Play Menarini Award ceremony will be broadcast live on Sky, channels 501 and 257. To follow the award winners and stay up to date, visit the official website www.fairplaymenarini.com and follow the Award’s official social media channels on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
