Referee João Pinheiro, who participated in the last Football World Cup, received the Excellence Award at the XI Famalicão Sports Gala this Sunday. The award recognizes his presence among the world's best and his entire refereeing career.
Hailing from the Núcleo de Árbitros de Famalicão, where he began his journey, João Pinheiro received the distinction from Mayor Mário Passos. The referee shared the award with everyone who has supported him and stated: “I wasn't born in Famalicão, but today I am Famalicense”.
Pinheiro thanked the Municipality and the people who helped him, dedicating a special place to his family, whom he described as his “safe haven”. He recalled the demands of the profession, noting that despite being “always questioned and scrutinized”, referees continue to work with pleasure. He considered the award “a source of great pride”.
The evening honored nearly 250 national and international champions, celebrating the talent and dedication of those who represent Vila Nova de Famalicão. The Mayor, Mário Passos, highlighted sports as “a great school of life”, valuing principles such as overcoming challenges, sacrifice, and discipline.
The municipality reinforces its commitment to sports through support for associations and infrastructure improvements, such as the future Athletics Center and new swimming pools. Mário Passos revealed that support for associations amounted to over 2.2 million euros this year.
The gala also recognized other categories: Academia Gindança (Sports Association/Club of the Year), Alexandre Oliveira (Manager of the Year), Teresa Oliveira (Referee of the Year), Tiago Machado (Coach of the Year), Mariana Maciel (Female Revelation Athlete), and Francisco Silva (Male Revelation Athlete). The LAP50 Ultra Trail was recognized as Sports Event of the Year.
