The Atlético de Madrid Foundation hosted its inaugural ADN Rojiblanco awards gala on October 7, celebrating six social projects linked to the club’s supporters’ clubs. The event, held at the Club Telefónica of the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, saw these initiatives receive both recognition and financial backing.
This new initiative by the Foundation aims to champion causes that embody Atlético de Madrid’s core values, extending beyond the football pitch. It seeks to highlight sport and education as powerful tools for social transformation, emphasising qualities such as commitment, solidarity, and dedication.
The gala was a significant occasion, attended by prominent figures from the club. President Enrique Cerezo welcomed guests, while manager Diego Pablo Simeone and team captains Koke, Lola Gallardo, and Rosa Otermín were present. Other players like Johnny Cardoso and Alexander Sørloth, alongside club legend Adelardo Rodríguez, also showed their support. Foundation ambassadors Carla Pereyra and Beatriz Espejel hosted the event.
The six recognised projects spanned a variety of social causes, including promoting inclusion through sports like rugby and adapted padel, supporting children with autism spectrum disorder through assistance dogs, and fostering inclusion for the deaf community. Educational and healthcare initiatives, as well as support for families facing serious health challenges, were also among those honoured.
In addition to the awards, the club made a donation to Fundación Aladina. This contribution will support the construction of Casa Aladina, a planned day centre in Madrid’s Hortaleza district. This facility aims to provide comprehensive support, therapies, and programmes for children with cancer, their families, and survivors, enhancing their quality of life and emotional well-being.
The ADN Rojiblanco gala establishes a new platform for the Atlético de Madrid Foundation to acknowledge and support the valuable work carried out by organisations connected to its extensive network of supporters’ clubs, directing attention and resources towards impactful social projects.