Queen Letizia presided over the UNICEF Spain 2025 Awards ceremony this Thursday. This event recognizes the work of individuals and organizations committed to defending children's rights.
As honorary president of UNICEF Spain, the queen led the ceremony with her usual dedication. In addition, the event brought together prominent figures from sports, media, and social activism.
The viral photo of Queen Letizia with the Gasol brothers
The event, held in Madrid, featured emotional moments and powerful speeches. Moreover, one image quickly became a talking point: the queen alongside Pau Gasol, one of the award recipients.
The former basketball player was honored with the UNICEF Transforma Award. He received it for the work of the Gasol Foundation in promoting children's health and fighting obesity.
Gasol attended the event accompanied by his brother Marc, vice president of the foundation. He also expressed his gratitude for the recognition with remarks focused on the impact that good habits can have from childhood.
Queen Letizia and Pau Gasol, main figures of the event
Beyond the award, the photograph of Gasol and Queen Letizia standing side by side did not go unnoticed. Even wearing heels, the queen barely reached the former athlete's shoulder, who stands over 6 ft. 6 in. tall (2 m).
The image was widely shared on social media. It also sparked comments about the physical contrast, but also about the symbolism of the moment: two role models united by a common cause.
Throughout the event, Queen Letizia was approachable with the awardees and the young attendees. She spoke with the guests, posed with all the honorees, and once again made clear her commitment to children and their rights.
Gasol was joined by other UNICEF ambassadors. Among them were journalist Sara Carbonero and Paralympic swimmer Teresa Perales. Thus, the event brought together several figures committed to the cause.
Among the awardees were also the youth network Cibercorresponsales and Kim Phuc Phan Thi, known for the iconic "Napalm" photo in Vietnam. The latter received the award for her activism on behalf of children affected by armed conflict.
Once again, the UNICEF Spain Awards shine a spotlight on those who work to build a better future for the most vulnerable children. This way, they recognize the effort and commitment of individuals and organizations who fight every day for the rights of boys and girls.