Gigi Buffon honoured by President Mattarella for his commitment as an AIRC supporter
At the Quirinale, during the annual opening ceremony of 'The Days of Research,' the national team delegation leader was recognised for raising awareness among younger generations about the initiatives promoted by the AIRC Foundation
Monday, October 28, 2024
This morning, President Sergio Mattarella awarded Gianluigi Buffon the 'Believe in Research' prize, one of the prestigious recognitions given to supporters of AIRC, the leading non-profit organisation funding independent cancer research in Italy. During the annual ceremony dedicated to 'The Days of Research' held at the Quirinale, the former Azzurri goalkeeper was honoured 'for his ability to engage, both personally and as the head of the Italian National Football Federation delegation, young generations in the outreach initiatives of the AIRC Foundation. Through authentic participation and sensitivity in sports, he has contributed to spreading AIRC's values in line with messages promoting healthy lifestyles and prevention.
In the coming days, the national team will take to the field alongside AIRC as they prepare for their final two matches in the Nations League group against Belgium and France. They will renew their traditional partnership with the 'A Goal for Research' campaign, a historic initiative promoted by the AIRC Foundation and supported by FIGC. The Azzurri will invite fans and supporters to join the team of 6,000 AIRC researchers by making donations via SMS or landline calls to the number 45521.
Since 1965, AIRC has invested over €2.3 billion in thousands of research projects that have yielded tangible results for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. This investment has also fostered the growth of the Italian scientific community and the training of its young talents. AIRC raises funds through the support of 4.5 million donors, 20,000 volunteers, and 17 regional offices, distributing these funds transparently to the most deserving cancer research projects. Currently, approximately 6,000 researchers are working in over 100 institutes across the country. AIRC promotes health and prevention awareness in schools, public squares, businesses, and through various media outlets.
This morning at the Quirinale, President Andrea Sironi and Scientific Director Anna Mondino of the AIRC Foundation, along with Dr. Alessio Menga from My First AIRC Grant at the University of Eastern Piedmont, presented the results of a year of work to President Sergio Mattarella focused on cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. They emphasised the complexity of oncological research and the need to strengthen funding to meet the increasing demand for high-quality scientific projects that currently remain partially excluded from AIRC Foundation's significant investments. In 2024 alone, over €143 million has been allocated to support the 6,000 researchers working primarily in public institutions.
