On November 30, Florence hosted a remarkable event celebrating the world of sport and its champions.

The talk show, “The champions tell their stories“, organized by the Fair Play Menarini Foundation, transformed the historic Salone dei Cinquecento in Palazzo Vecchio into a stage for heartfelt storytelling. Iconic figures from international sports shared their personal journeys, highlighting not only their athletic triumphs but also the anecdotes, emotions, and challenges that shaped their lives.

The event featured an outstanding lineup of sports legends. Among them was Javier Zanetti, the legendary Inter and Argentina national team captain, and recipient of the 2023 Fair Play Menarini International Award. Volleyball was represented by Andrea Zorzi, an unforgettable champion and Fair Play Menarini Ambassador since 2010, who was part of the “wonder generation” that claimed two world championships in the 1990s. Joining him was Ekaterina Antropova, a rising star in Italian volleyball, who clinched gold at the Paris 2024 Olympics under the guidance of coach Julio Velasco.

The world of athletics shone bright with Andy Diaz, a Cuban-born triple jump champion who secured his first medal representing Italy in Paris. Also present was Fabrizio Donato, bronze medalist in the triple jump at the 2012 London Olympics. Paralympic discus thrower Rigivan Ganeshamoorthy captured the hearts of the audience with his gold medal victory at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. Representing winter sports was Giuliano Razzoli, gold medalist in slalom at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Games and a Fair Play Menarini Ambassador. Adding a touch of local pride, Borja Valero, a former Fiorentina midfielder and fan favorite, was met with enthusiastic applause.

The renowned journalist and storyteller Federico Buffa, who was also among the 28th Fair Play Menarini awardees, underscored how sport is more than competition: it is a powerful medium for sharing universal stories that inspire and connect people. His remarks invited the audience to reflect on the essential human element behind every sporting achievement.

A team of charismatic and experienced hosts—Rachele Sangiuliano, Omar Schillaci, Michele Cagiano, and Alessandro Acton—helped bring these extraordinary stories to life. Adding to the event’s prestige was the presence of Silvia Salis, Deputy Vice President of CONI (Italian National Olympic Committee). For the first time, the event was broadcast live on Sky TG24, reaching a wider audience.

The athletes shared deeply personal insights into the sacrifices, fears, dreams, and vulnerabilities that often remain hidden behind the glittering facade of success.

Florence, known worldwide for its art and culture, proved once again to be a city of values by hosting such an extraordinary event. Thanks to the Fair Play Menarini Foundation, which has long championed ethical and inclusive sport through its international award, the city reaffirmed its role as a hub for meaningful initiatives.

“The champions tell their stories” was more than just an event—it was a celebration of the raw, authentic emotions that sport can evoke. It highlighted that true champions are not only defined by their medals but by their ability to inspire future generations through their human journeys. The message was clear and powerful: behind every victory lies a story of courage, sacrifice, and passion.

 “This edition of the Fair Play Menarini Award once again celebrated the values of sport and its champions,” said Florence’s mayor, Sara Funaro, who attended the event. “These values are not just about athletic skill but also encompass essential life skills, such as empathy and the ability to build and maintain positive social relationships. These qualities extend beyond sport and are fundamental for creating a better, more inclusive society based on respect. I sincerely thank the Menarini Group for their commitment to these ideals.”

“Once again, “The champions tell their stories” brought us unique accounts from individuals who embody the deepest essence of sport,” said Valeria Speroni Cardi and Filippo Paganelli, members of the Fair Play Menarini Foundation Board. “We look forward to welcoming you in the summer of 2025 for the 29th edition, as we continue to promote the values of Fair Play Menarini, especially to younger generations.”