In a cross‑party call, dozens of Members of the European Parliament urged the European Commission to create a European sporting award for outstanding Olympians and Paralympians. The letter, signed by 30 MEPs, addressed President Ursula von der Leyen and argued that recognising athletes in this way would highlight the unifying power of sport, strengthen European thought, offer young people inspiring role models on a supra‑national level, and visibly underscore the values of the Union.
The authors of the appeal suggested that a ceremony could take place in Brussels or Strasbourg-perhaps at the European Parliament or at the Commission-where the exceptional achievements could be formally acknowledged. They even proposed a new accolade, such as a “Golden Medal of European Sport”, to be presented at such an event.
Erik Marquardt, the head of the German Green group in the European Parliament, explained that sport connects people across borders and that this bonding force should be made more visible throughout Europe. He stressed that athletes represent not only their home nations but also shared European values-fairness, respect, inclusion, and solidarity. A European honour would send a strong message that peak sporting performances are also a collective success for Europe. In an era when European cohesion matters more than ever, sport can serve as a powerful symbol of a united continent.