In an emotional and crowded ceremony held at the Panopticon Museum in Ibagué, the Colombian Association of Sports Journalists, Acord Colombia, awarded the prestigious recognition of Best Leader of the Year to the president of the Colombian Olympic Committee, COC, Ciro Solano Hurtado.

The event was attended by the most important sports figures of 2025, as well as the main departmental authorities, including the mayor of Ibagué, Johana Aranda, and the governor in charge of Tolima, Alexander Castro, among others.

This annual award highlights the tireless work of Solano Hurtado in promoting and strengthening Colombian sports.

During his tenure at the head of the COC, significant progress has been made in the development and support of athletes, consolidating Colombia as a regional sports power.

The distinction especially highlights its contribution to the organization of international events, its constant support for sports federations and its effective coordination of work with the Ministry of Sports.

The evening not only honored the top leader, but also served as a framework to reward the most outstanding athletes of the year.

Ciro Solano Hurtado, chosen best leader of the year

On the men’s podium, world champions Yeison López took Gold, followed by Jacobo Mantilla (Silver) and Alexander Jiménez (Bronze).

For their part, the ladies awarded were Natalia Linares with the Gold, Gabriela Rueda with the Silver and Valeria Arboleda with the Bronze, thus recognizing their triumphs and excellent performance throughout 2025.

With this distinction, Acord Colombia highlighted the track record of excellence of Ciro Solano Hurtado, who has been a key piece in the national sports infrastructure.

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