The first Valores Jóvenes Deportistas 2025 awards ceremony was held in Girona, established by the Fundación Princesa de Girona. This new award aims to recognize young people for whom sport is not just about competition, but also a means of personal growth and a tool for positive social impact. This year, the jury honored six athletes—three men and three women—and one organization working in the social sector.
The ceremony was attended by the President of the Generalitat of Catalonia, Salvador Illa, the Spanish government’s representative in Catalonia, Carlos Prieto, and the foundation’s president, Francisco Belil. They emphasized the importance of supporting young leaders capable of inspiring the next generation.
Award winners
In the men’s category, the gold award went to swimmer Guillermo Gracia from Extremadura. Silver was awarded to Basque gymnast Eneko Lambea, and bronze to Javier de Bethencourt, a golfer from the Canary Islands. Among the women, the top honor went to gymnast Inés Bergua from Aragón, the silver medal was claimed by Julia Benedetti, a skater from Galicia, and the bronze went to Iziar Martínez, a climber from Castilla y León.
Special recognition was given by the jury to the Autismo Melilla Association, which has been supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families since 2018. The organization was praised for creating an inclusive environment where sport not only promotes physical development but also fosters self-esteem and independence.
The importance of sport
During the ceremony, Salvador Illa emphasized that sports are especially important today for a society facing challenges and signs of alienation. According to him, young athletes serve as role models, and their achievements inspire children and teenagers to strive for new accomplishments. “When a child gets on a bicycle or puts on a harness to go climbing, they often look up to those who have already succeeded,” Illa noted.
Francisco Belil added that the value of sport is measured not only by the number of medals, but also by the effort put in by participants. He expressed his gratitude to everyone who makes sport a driving force for change, especially for young people.
Contribution to society
The award jury, which included renowned athletes, former competitors, and journalists, noted that sport can unite people and cultivate a sense of responsibility. Recognition was given not only to the winners, but to everyone who uses sport to support others and foster an inclusive environment.
The association Autismo Melilla has become an example of how sporting initiatives can change the lives of people with special needs. Thanks to their efforts, sport is becoming accessible to all, and participation in competitions helps develop confidence and independence.
The role of the award
The Valores Jóvenes Deportistas 2025 award is more than just recognition for athletic achievements. It highlights the importance of each participant’s personal contribution to the development of society. The organizers believe that such initiatives will help shape a new generation of leaders for whom sports are a pathway to self-realization and supporting others.
The award ceremony in Girona became a significant event for Spain’s sports community. Young winners and organizational representatives were recognized for their efforts, and their stories inspired many in attendance.
In case you didn’t know, the Fundación Princesa de Girona was established to support young talent across various fields — from science and education to culture and sports. Each year, the organization launches projects aimed at developing leadership qualities in young people and promoting social initiatives. The Valores Jóvenes Deportistas award has become a new focus for the foundation, highlighting the importance of sports as a tool for positive change in society.
