The initiative, jointly promoted by the Portuguese Institute of Sport and Youth (IPDJ) and the Institute for the Rights of People with Disabilities (IDiPD), celebrated landmark projects in promoting sports inclusion. The opening session featured an inspiring performance of inclusive dance and gymnastics by NECI and the Associação Dancenema de Portimão.
The opening panel included speeches by Jorge Carmo (Councillor for Sport of the Albufeira Municipal Council), Sónia Esperto (President of IDiPD), and Ricardo Gonçalves (President of IPDJ). This was followed by the presentation of the international project "Sport For All: Promoting Inclusion and Combating Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities" by Ana Pacheco (IPDJ).
Marking the International Year of Volunteers for Sustainable Development 2026, the ceremony also featured a panel discussion on the fundamental role of volunteering in the sustainability of inclusive projects. Moderated by Professor Doctor Elsa Pereira (University of Algarve), the panel included Fátima Duarte (Pista Mágica representative), José Bentes (President of Associação Mar Livre), and Ricardo Gonçalves (President of Associação Surf Cura).
Odete Fiuza, President of the Jury, presented the review of the 5th edition. Four Honorable Mentions were awarded, each receiving 1,000 euros from IDiPD, 2,000 euros from Fundação Decathlon, and 250 euros in specialized volunteer management consultancy from Pista Mágica. The recognized projects were "Centro de formação desportiva náutica de desporto escolar" (represented by Glória Leite), "Ria sem limites" (represented by Pedro Coutinho), "Rodas da Inclusão" (represented by Carina Calisto), and "Polo de Surf Adaptado - Onda de Sorrisos" (represented by Pedro Quadros).
The first overall place and the best project in the Training and Research area was awarded to "Sexto Sentido". The winning project received a total monetary prize of 6,000 euros, jointly awarded by IDiPD and IPDJ, plus a 350 euro voucher for online specialized volunteer management consultancy from Pista Mágica. The award was presented by Ricardo Gonçalves and Bárbara Pereira.
