The 2025 World Fair Play Awards ceremony took place on Sunday, 11 October 2026, at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland, celebrating outstanding examples of sportsmanship, integrity, respect and humanity. The event was a great success, bringing together the international Fair Play community to honour individuals who embody the true values of sport.
Filip Zubčić — Pierre de Coubertin World Fair Play Trophy
The Croatian alpine skier received this award for an exceptional act of fair play, recognising his honesty and integrity in competition, even when doing so may come at the cost of sporting success.
Reflecting on his decision, Filip explained that there was never any question about what he had to do:
“It was not a question. For me, that was the end of the story. The only thing I could do was to be honest. I would never accept a result knowing that I was cheating.”
Asia Hogan-Rochester — Jean Borotra World Fair Play Trophy
The Canadian rugby player was recognised for demonstrating the spirit of fair play throughout sporting competition, embodying respect, dignity and sportsmanship. Unfortunately, this outstanding athlete was unable to attend the ceremony in person, but kindly sent us a heartfelt video message to share with everyone.
Ufuk Timer — Willi Daume World Fair Play Trophy
The Turkish recipient was honoured for his dedication to promoting fair play and using sport as a means of inclusion, social responsibility and positive change.
Speaking about what drives his work, Ufuk shared a simple yet powerful message:
“My motivation is a better world for the children.”
Tim Van de Velde — CIFP / World Athletics Fair Play Award
The Belgian steeplechase athlete received this special joint award from the International Fair Play Committee and World Athletics, recognising an outstanding example of sportsmanship and solidarity in athletics.
Reflecting on his actions, Tim emphasised that helping others is a natural part of sport and of being human:
“I had to help. A little help never hurt anybody. It just felt so natural. Fair play is not something extraordinary; it is natural. It needs to be this way.”
Ilia Malinin — Milano Cortina 2026 Fair Play Award
The American figure skater, widely known as the “Quad God”, received this special award in recognition of the values of sportsmanship and the Olympic spirit demonstrated at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
Speaking about the joy of seeing a friend achieve his dream, Ilia highlighted the importance of friendship and mutual support:
“It just made me so happy to see him achieve his dream and achieve his goals. I wanted to be a good friend, to support him and be there for him.”
Gábor Mihály — Special Honorary Diploma
A special Honorary Diploma was presented to Hungarian sculptor Gábor Mihály, creator of the Fair Play trophies. The recognition was particularly meaningful at the Olympic Museum, where his renowned sculpture Olympia – Three Cyclists is displayed, creating a special connection between his artistic work and the values of the Fair Play movement.
The ceremony concluded on a high note, celebrating the people who make sport a force for good. The International Fair Play Committee warmly congratulates all the award recipients and sincerely thanks everyone who attended and contributed to the success of this memorable occasion.
Photos: International Olympic Committee (IOC) Photo Picture Element
