Fair Play Award nominees
World Athletics is pleased to announce the three finalists for the International Fair Play Award, celebrated as part of the World Athletics Awards 2025.
Earlier this year, the International Fair Play Committee (CIFP), in partnership with World Athletics, invited fans across the world to nominate moments that epitomise fair play with a view to recognising one standout athlete or moment.
A jury was empanelled to review the nominations and fans can now cast their votes through the World Athletics social media channels for the shortlisted moment that they feel best exemplifies fair play. These votes will be combined with votes from the panel members to decide the overall winner. The winner will be announced on 29 November.
Finalists
Emmanouil Karalis
Emmanouil Karalis displayed respect and camaraderie throughout the pole vault competition at the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25. He supported fellow athletes after their falls, retrieved their poles, encouraged the crowd and took the time to thank the officials. Earlier in the season, Karalis also exemplified true sportsmanship by agreeing to share the gold medal with Menno Vloon at the European Indoor Championships.
Josh Kerr
Josh Kerr, who was determined to finish the 1500m final at the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 despite injury, proved his dedication to fans by spending time after his races giving autographs and selfies. He also gave his spikes to fans.
Tim Van De Velde
Tim Van De Velde decided to help the injured athlete Carlos San Martin cross the finish line during the 3000m steeplechase at the World Athletics Championships Tokyo 25 – fully aware that it might lead to his disqualification – in a true demonstration of sportsmanship and humanity.
The CIFP was established more than 60 years ago to promote the principles of fair play in sport: fair competition, respect, friendship, team spirit, equality and sport without doping. It honours those who respect the written and unwritten rules of sport, which include integrity, solidarity, tolerance, care, excellence and joy, and who set an example for others, on and off the field. The CIFP’s first collaboration with World Athletics dates back to the 2003 World Athletics Championships in Paris. Twelve awards have been handed out since then.
Jury members
Mark Butler – athletics statistician
Paula Radcliffe – former world marathon record-holder
Jon Ridgeon – World Athletics CEO
Anna Ryzhykova – member of the Athletes’ Commission
Sunil Sabharwal – President of the International Fair Play Committee
Sander Skotheim – winner of the 2024 Fair Play Award
World Athletics
