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Hans-Joachim Watzke and Borussia Dortmund Receive the “Hope Without Boundaries” Award
The Sheba Medical Center—also known as the “Hospital of Peace”—is Israel’s largest medical facility, with more than 10,000 employees, and one of the most advanced hospitals in the world. The institution presents this award annually, and this year marks the 19th edition.
The Sheba Medical Center, which has been consistently ranked among the world’s Top 10 hospitals by Newsweek, provides medical care to those in need regardless of race, religion, nationality, or income.
As Hans-Joachim Watzke was unable to attend in person, Borussia Dortmund’s Anti-Discrimination Officer, Daniel Lörcher, accepted the award on his behalf in St. Moritz.
Prof. Yitshak Kreiss, Director General of the Sheba Medical Center revealed, “In moments that test our collective spirit, true champions are defined not by victories on the field but by their unwavering moral courage. Borussia Dortmund FC has shown that courage, as well as solidarity and support during these challenging times. Like healthcare, sport can connect hearts, bridge differences and convey a message of hope, solidarity and unity-something the world needs more than ever.”
Hans-Joachim Watzke stated: “I accept the ‘Hope without Boundaries’ Award on behalf of all Borussia Dortmund employees, members, and shareholders, who have deeply committed themselves to our fight against discrimination, racism, and antisemitism for many years. This is a battle that must be fought by society as a whole, and football—with its immense reach—must also take a clear stance. We need courage and civic responsibility to actively counteract racist and anti-Semitic ideologies across the world.”
Watzke also expressed his gratitude to the Sheba Medical Center “for its vital and selfless medical work, which is carried out without regard to ideology or religious affiliation,” particularly during the recent war in the Middle East following Hamas’s attack on Israel.
Prior to receiving the “Hope Without Boundaries” Award, Hans-Joachim Watzke had already been honored by the Central Council of Jews in Germany with its highest distinction, the Leo Baeck Prize, in recognition of his enduring commitment to combating anti-Semitism.
Fotos: fotoswiss.com/giancarlo cattaneo