AKS Lion wins the Donosti Cup 2026 Fair Play Award

Donosti Cup 2026 once again proved that football is about much more than competition. In addition to crowning the champions of each category, the tournament once again recognised the teams that best embodied the values of respect, sportsmanship and fair play through the presentation of the Fair Play Award.

The Fair Play Ranking, based on the evaluations carried out after every match, recognises the exemplary behaviour of players, coaches and supporters throughout the tournament. The ranking takes into account factors such as respect for opponents and referees, behaviour on and off the pitch, the conduct of coaching staff and the atmosphere created by families and supporters.

China's AKS Lion claimed first place in the 2026 edition after achieving the highest score in the tournament and being recognised as the competition's most sporting team. Chico United FC, from the United States, finished second, while Touring KE, from Errenteria, completed the podium and was also the highest-ranked club from Gipuzkoa.

This recognition had a special meaning for Touring KE. As the highest-ranked team from Gipuzkoa in the Fair Play Ranking, the club received, in addition to the Fair Play trophy, a €2,000 cheque sponsored by Rural Kutxa to be donated to a social organisation chosen by the players themselves. The team decided to donate the entire prize to Mindara Elkartea, an association based in Errenteria that promotes the inclusion of people with disabilities through adapted sport and physical activity.

Although football still faces occasional behaviour that does not reflect its core values, Donosti Cup remains firmly committed to promoting fair play. The tournament will continue to strengthen initiatives that encourage respect and positive coexistence, recognising exemplary behaviour while taking firm action against unsporting conduct.