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ROMEJune 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Some conquer the world with unforgettable feats, while others dedicate their entire careers as models of loyalty and respect. These are the stars of the 30th Fair Play Menarini International Award, whose winners were announced today in the Hall of Honor of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI).
Press conference presenting the 30th Fair Play Menarini International Award
From soccer to swimming, fencing, and Paralympic skiing, as well as athletics, basketball, speed skating, and volleyball: the 2026 award brings together champions who have thrilled fans and sports enthusiasts around the world, and who continue to leave their mark beyond the playing field.
“We are delighted to gather in the CONI Hall of Honor, a place steeped in Italian sports history and its values, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Fair Play Menarini Award. Thirty years is a significant milestone; it is history: a path built on solid foundations,” said CONI President Luciano Buonfiglio. “It has honored many champions—and I am particularly pleased today because three very young individuals have been recognized. This message goes beyond medals. They have demonstrated ethics, respect, and integrity—important values that need to be upheld and promoted. These three young people are a great example.“
Among the standout figures of the 30th edition is world record holder and pole vault legend Armand Duplantis. Gianfranco Zola will represent the world of soccer, one of the most beloved talents in Italian sports history. They are joined by swimming icon Gregorio Paltrinieri, Italian basketball representative Achille Polonara, race walking queen Antonella Palmisano, Paralympic skiing star Chiara Mazzel, and Olympic champion and Italian fencing ambassador Daniele Garozzo.
Also taking part in the Fair Play Menarini event are key figures in Italian speed skating success Davide Ghiotto, Andrea Giovannini, and Michele Malfatti, as well as one of the most recognizable faces in Italian volleyball, Simone Anzani.
On July 2, the Teatro del Maggio Musicale Fiorentino in Florence will host the awards ceremony for the 30th Fair Play Menarini International Award. This year, in collaboration with Sky TG24, the evening celebrating some of the most renowned figures in international sports will be broadcast once again. The event will be hosted by Rachele Sangiuliano, Michele Cagiano, and Omar Schillaci, alongside legendary sports commentator Federico Buffa.
Fair play knows no age limits, as demonstrated by the winners of the “Young Athletes” Fair Play Menarini Award: Matteo Pasqualetti, Gloria Tinaburri, and Alberto Belluzzi. These three young individuals remind us that fair play is a choice we make every day, both in sports and in life.
“For thirty years, the Fair Play Menarini International Award has celebrated champions who leave their mark not only through victories but also through the way they practice sports,” said Fair Play Menarini Foundation Board Members Luca Lastrucci, Valeria Speroni Cardi, and Filippo Paganelli. “The stories of this year’s winners remind us that respect, loyalty, and fairness remain values capable of uniting different generations and resonating with those who love sports, both on and off the field.“
Before the grand finale, the 30th edition will take place on June 15 in Florence, where the special Fiamme Gialle “Study and Sport” Award will be presented, recognizing young talents who balance academics with competitive athletics.
Press conference presenting the 30th Fair Play Menarini International Award