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The 15th edition of the National “Enzo Bearzot” Award was held, as tradition goes, in the Hall of Honour at CONI, organised by the Unione Sportiva ACLI in collaboration with the FIGC. Como head coach Cesc Fabregas received the prize from CONI president Luciano Buonfiglio and US ACLI president Damiano Lembo, becoming the first foreign manager to win the award dedicated to Italy’s 1982 World Cup–winning coach.
“This is not just an individual award,” said Fabregas, “it also belongs to the city of Como, to the staff, the players, and the Hartono family who believed in this project. I took the time to learn about Enzo Bearzot and understand who he was, that’s what makes this award even more special today. I’m honoured, from my first day in Italy, I’ve felt truly welcomed.” In addition to the prize, Fabregas also received a €5,000 cheque to be donated to the pediatric department of Sant’Anna Hospital in Como.
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FOR CAPELLO. From one of today’s most talked-about coaches to a legend of the past. Fabio Capello, who turns 80 on June 18, received a special award for his extraordinary career. As head coach of Milan and Roma, he won five Scudetti, a Champions League, a UEFA Super Cup and four Italian Super Cups, as well as two La Liga titles with Real Madrid. A three-time winner of the Panchina d’Oro and a member of the Italian Football Hall of Fame, Capello spoke before receiving the award from National Amateur League president Giancarlo Abete: “With Bearzot, we shared great successes, even through difficult moments. The relationship he had with his players taught me a lot, it’s something I carried with me throughout my own coaching career.”
FARINA AWARD AND ORMEZZANO AWARD. Referee Marco Guida received the memorial award dedicated to Stefano Farina. “Stefano,” the Torre Annunziata referee recalled, “was a great referee and an excellent official. I’m sorry he is no longer with us, as he would have been a great help.” Also recognised was 17-year-old referee Valentina Zamburru, who on February 28 in Sardinia was assaulted during a youth football match. The Gian Paolo Ormezzano award was given to Gianluca Oddenino of La Stampa.