TAFISA Friend for Life Award Presented to Santiago Pérez de Camino

TAFISA proudly honored Santiago Pérez de Camino with the Friend for Life Award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the Global Sport for All Movement. The award was presented by TAFISA President Wolfgang Baumann, Secretary General Jean-Francois Laurent and Board Member Marco Tomasini in a special ceremony held at the Vatican’s Dicastery for Laity, Family and Life, celebrating Mr. Perez de Camino’s enduring impact and dedication.

For a decade, Mr. Perez de Camino served as the Head of the Church and Sport Office of the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life, where he worked tirelessly to promote the values of sport as a tool for inclusion, unity, and human flourishing. His work has had a profound effect on shaping policies, programs, and initiatives that advocate for fair play, teamwork, and accessibility in sports worldwide.

Throughout his career, Mr. Perez de Camino has collaborated with international stakeholders, publishing thought-provoking work, leading impactful events, and strengthening the relationship between sport, education, and community development. He coordinated the publication of the Holy See’s first official document on sport entitled “Giving the best of Yourself”. This publication highlights the role of sport in fostering personal excellence, balance, and a healthy lifestyle while promoting universal values like teamwork, discipline, and respect.

His leadership and vision have advanced the global conversation on Sport for All, ensuring its relevance in addressing today’s challenges and fostering solutions for tomorrow. He was the Executive Director of the World Summit titled “Sport for All. Cohesive, Accessible and Tailored to each Person” hosted by the Holy See at the Vatican in 2022. The summit concluded with the signing of the declaration on the role of sport in the world.

The TAFISA’s Friend for Life Award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to the growth and success of the Sport for All Movement over an extended period. Mr. Perez de Camino’s unwavering dedication, innovative approach, and collaborative spirit have left a lasting legacy, furthering TAFISA’s mission to create a better world through sport.

President Wolfgang Baumann expressed his admiration, stating:

“Mr. Perez de Camino has been a true champion for Sport for All. It is an honor to celebrate his remarkable achievements and present this award as a token of our deep appreciation. His impact on the movement has been profound, and his work continues to inspire us all.”

TAFISA congratulates Santiago Pérez de Camino on this well-deserved recognition and extends its heartfelt thanks for his exceptional service to the Sport for All Movement.