January 28, 2026

CARLO DELLA GATTA (ITA) awarded with EFPM “FAIR PLAY FLAME” AWARD 2025

Carlo Della Gatta, a 13-year-old boy suffering from advanced third- and fourth-degree lymphoma, fought for months to save his life. After his battle, he returned to the football field with his team, Riccione Calcio 1926. After scoring the equalizing goal, he lifted his shirt to reveal the words “Forza Lian.”

Lian was a four-year-old boy Carlo had met in the hospital, who became his companion during that difficult journey. Carlo explained, “I did it because he is still in the hospital, and it doesn’t feel right that it should be this way.”

It was a great gesture of affection from someone who knows firsthand what suffering means, showing that willpower, solidarity, and love truly make the difference. It was a beautiful example—an extraordinary gesture of humanity on the field—not only for Lian, but for everyone, whether healthy or struggling.

“On that day, dedicating my goal to Lian, who had shared the room with me in the pediatric oncology department, was a special way to tell him that I was still by his side while he continued fighting his battle. Scoring that goal wasn’t just for my team; it was also a cry of hope for Lian and for all those who are still fighting. Sport has been very important to me, even when life challenged me with a dreadful enemy. One lesson I learned is that every match is worth playing,” said Carlo.

The Trophy was presented by Ioannis Psilopoulos, Secretary General of the EFPM, accompanied by Gian Battisia Silvagni, President of the San Marino Fair Play Committee.