PARIS - The Théâtre du Châtelet, host of the 69th edition of the Ballon d’Or, provided the stage for a moment of both elegance and profound meaning on Monday evening as S.A.S. Princess Charlène of Monaco presented the Prix Sócrates, the award honoring social and humanitarian engagement in sport.
The 2025 laureate was the Fundación Xana, created in 2024 by Luis Enrique, former international player and current coach of Paris Saint-Germain, together with his wife Elena. Their daughter, Sira Martínez Cullell, accepted the award from the Princess on stage.
The distinction, established in 2022 by L’Équipe and the organization Peace and Sport, carries the name of Sócrates, the legendary Brazilian footballer and physician remembered for his commitment to social causes. The prize recognizes athletes and initiatives devoted to solidarity and societal engagement.
This year’s honor resonated with a message of resilience. In 2019, Enrique and his family faced the devastating loss of their daughter Xana, who died at the age of nine after a rare form of cancer. Five years later, the Fundación Xana was born. Its mission is to support gravely ill children and their families, offering medical, psychological, and material assistance - an initiative now recognized at one of football’s most prestigious ceremonies.
Princess Charlène, whose own foundation has long been active in the fields of childhood, health, and education, used her address to underline the deeper significance of athletic endeavor.
“Sport is much more than sport, it is much more than a simple activity. It embodies values, passion, and dedication,” she said.
She also emphasized Monaco’s deep-rooted commitment to sport, recalling that the Principality has recently been designated the World Capital of Sport 2025.
“In Monaco, sport is a priority. As former Olympians, the Prince and I profoundly believe in the educational and structuring role of sport. Being here tonight is also a way to pay tribute to sport as an instrument of peace and social cohesion.”
The presentation of the Prix Sócrates was thus not only a recognition of resilience through tragedy but also a testament to the enduring role of sport in shaping lives, fostering unity, and advancing humanitarian causes - values that lie at the heart of both Fundación Xana and Princess Charlène’s own commitments.
Photo credits: Olivier Huitel / Palais Princier - L’Équipe