Monaco, December 7, 2024 – In a significant recognition of its efforts to utilize sports as a powerful tool for promoting peace, the Saudi sports sector has been honored with the prestigious "Peace and Sport" Award. This accolade was bestowed upon Saudi Arabia for its unwavering commitment to advancing the values of peace through sports, as well as its successful implementation of a variety of high-profile sports initiatives. The award highlights the Kingdom’s key role in hosting major international sporting events and fostering global collaboration through athletic endeavors.
The announcement was made during the 14th edition of the Peace and Sport International Forum, a distinguished gathering of global sports leaders, diplomats, and peace advocates, which took place in Monaco this week. The Forum was held under the esteemed patronage of Prince Albert II of Monaco, further underscoring the significance of the event and its dedication to promoting peace through sports.
The Saudi delegation at the Forum was led by Prince Fahd bin Jalawi bin Abdulaziz bin Musaed, Vice President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SOPC). Prince Fahd received the award on behalf of his royal counterpart, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, Minister of Sports and President of SOPC, who was unable to attend the ceremony in person.
Prince Fahd’s acceptance speech highlighted the Kingdom’s longstanding vision to harness sports as a catalyst for social development, international cooperation, and peacebuilding. Under the leadership of Prince Abdulaziz, Saudi Arabia has launched several key projects that bridge cultures and foster diplomatic relations through sporting exchanges. The nation’s ambitious plans include the continued hosting of globally recognized sports events, bringing together athletes, fans, and nations from around the world.
In his remarks, Prince Fahd emphasized that the recognition serves as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s ongoing contributions to the global sports landscape, particularly its role in championing peace initiatives that resonate far beyond the sporting arena. The Kingdom’s success in hosting international events such as the Formula E races, the Saudi Cup, and various World Championships in diverse disciplines exemplifies its commitment to furthering sports’ potential as a unifying force across borders.
The "Peace and Sport" Award is part of an annual initiative to celebrate organizations and individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the promotion of peace through sport. By acknowledging the Saudi sports sector's contributions, the award shines a spotlight on the Kingdom’s pivotal role in the global sports community and its steadfast support of initiatives aimed at enhancing social harmony, cross-cultural dialogue, and peace across the globe.
This recognition further reinforces the global stature of Saudi Arabia in the sports world, marking a milestone in its ongoing commitment to making sports a cornerstone of its diplomatic, social, and cultural outreach.