Florence Hosts 30th Fair Play Menarini International Awards

This year’s roster of honorees spans disciplines and generations, highlighting individuals who have shaped their fields through both skill and character. Basketball’s Achille Polonara and race walker Antonella Palmisano join pole vault record-breaker Armand Duplantis among the primary awardees. The ceremony also recognizes the resilience of Paralympic icons Bebe Vio and Chiara Mazzel, alongside the strategic excellence of fencer Daniele Garozzo, swimmer Gregorio Paltrinieri, and volleyball standout Simone Anzani.

Team achievements receive equal focus, specifically the speed skating trio of Davide Ghiotto, Michele Malfatti, and Andrea Giovannini, who ended a two-decade gold medal drought for Italy. Football history will be represented by Diego Milito, Emilio Butragueño, and Gianfranco Zola, while sports journalist Fabio Caressa rounds out the list of distinguished guests. According to Board members Luca Lastrucci, Valeria Speroni Cardi, and Filippo Paganelli, the Foundation remains committed to its original mission: proving that respecting rules and opponents is the ultimate measure of success in any arena. The ceremony will be broadcast live on Sky channels 501 and 257.