The ceremony took place at Palazzo Chigi in the presence of Italy’s Minister for the Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, and the President of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC), Gabriele Gravina. The award was presented to Magda Pozzo from Udinese’s ownership group by Italian football legend Dino Zoff.
The jury highlighted the transformative vision behind the Bluenergy Stadium, particularly its large-scale solar park developed with Bluenergy Group and its integrated approach to energy efficiency, accessibility, community engagement and cultural change. Sustainability has become a core value of Udinese Calcio, shaping youth programmes, daily operations, and long-term strategy.
“This is a historic day for our club,” said Magda Pozzo. “Being recognised at Palazzo Chigi for our sustainability model is a proud moment for Udine, Friuli Venezia Giulia and for Italy. The Bluenergy Stadium is more than an arena – it is a European laboratory for innovation, responsibility and the future of sport.”
"Sustainability is no longer an ideal horizon: it is a necessity, a collective commitment that requires vision, competence, and moral leadership. This year's winners embody all of this. Through their actions, they demonstrate that change is possible, that innovation can serve the community, and that responsibility towards the planet and future generations is not a constraint, but a value," said Francesco De Sanctis, Foundation President.
The De Sanctis Sustainability Award is organised by the De Sanctis Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security and with the patronage of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers.
The De Sanctis Foundation is a cultural and philanthropic organisation with several distinct branches, all focused on promoting well-being and social impact.
With this award, Udinese Calcio reaffirms its position as an international benchmark for green infrastructure, social responsibility, and forward-looking sports development.