At the 69th Ballon d’Or® ceremony, the Socrates Award was presented to the Xana Foundation, created by Luis Enrique, current coach of Paris Saint-Germain and winner of the 2025 UEFA Champions League, in tribute to his daughter Xana, who passed away at the age of 9 from a rare form of cancer.
By highlighting the Xana Foundation, the jury wished to recognise Luis Enrique’s work and his commitment to supporting seriously ill children and their families by providing medical, financial and psychological support. This recognition is particularly meaningful in September, a month dedicated to raising awareness about pediatric cancer.
H.S.H. PRINCESS CHARLENE OF MONACO – AN AMBASSADOR FOR PEACE THROUGH SPORT
Long committed to supporting young people, education and solidarity through her Foundation, H.S.H. Princess Charlene of Monaco perfectly embodies the spirit of the Socrates Award.
Her presence illuminated this year’s Ballon d’Or reinforcing the message of a sport as a vehicle for universal values.
“As former Olympians, The Prince and I share the vision of the exemplary and educational importance of sports.
We hope that by promoting sports, the corresponding values contribute to a more balanced development of the youth.Being here tonight is honouring sports as key instruments to peace and social cohesion.“ — H.S.H. Princess Charlene of Monaco
PEACE AND SPORT AND THE CHAMPIONS FOR PEACE
The ceremony was marked by the presence of seven Champions for Peace, ambassadors for Peace and Sport: Clarisse Agbegnenou (France / Judo), Julian Agliardi (France-USA / Skateboarding), Laura Juul Hansen (Denmark / Football), Florent Piétrus (France / Basketball), Hussein Alireza (Saudi Arabia / Rowing), Marlene Nidecker (France-Canada / Taekwondo) and Cheick Cissé (Ivory Coast / Taekwondo).
These athletes demonstrate that sport, no matter the playing field, can be a powerful vehicle for solidarity, education and social cohesion. Their participation highlights Champions’ exemplary role in transmitting values and inspiring younger generations around the world.
‘Participating in this ceremony and supporting the Socrates Award is a reminder that athletes have a role to play in society. Through sport, we can build connections, encourage education and contribute to a more inclusive world.’ – Florent Pietrus, Champion for Peace and former international basketball player
‘Being here as a Champion for Peace is a tremendous honour. It shows that sport can transcend the playing field. We have a responsibility to inspire and support young people by passing on values of solidarity and humility.’ – Clarisse Agbegnenou, Champion for Peace and triple Olympic champion
ABOUT PEACE AND SPORT AND THE SOCRATES AWARD
In 2022, alongside L’Équipe-France Football, Peace and Sport contributed to the creation of the Socrates Award, which was added to the eight trophies already presented at the prestigious Ballon d’Or ceremony.
Every year, the Organisation identifies, analyses and promotes the most inspiring initiatives in the world of football, in order to highlight those who use sport as a tool for inclusion and equal opportunities.
Photos Credits © L’Équipe, Palais Princier
