Michel Platini awarded Facchetti honour

UEFA President Michel Platini has been presented with the Giacinto Facchetti International Prize at a ceremony in Milan.

The honour was awarded to Mr Platini for his distinguished services to football, both as a player and now as President of European football's governing body, in particular his support of fair play and backing of the elements that make football 'the beautiful game'.

The Giacinto Facchetti International Prize was created by Italian sports daily newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport in memory of the renowned defender who enjoyed a superb 18-year career for FC Internazionale Milano. Facchetti won the European Champion Clubs' Cup in 1964 and 1965 and made 94 appearances for Italy, 70 of them as captain.

Facchetti's family was present at the ceremony, together with leaders and representatives of various Italian sports bodies and leading clubs, including the president of the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) and UEFA vice-president Giancarlo Abete.

Mr Platini received a charity cheque of €10,000 with the award. He presented it to the Stefano Borgonovo Foundation, founded almost three years ago by the former ACF Fiorentina and AC Milan striker who has been diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and is raising funds for research against the illness.

"My mission is to help children around the world who love this game, because this is the best game in the world," said the UEFA President. "Football teaches you education and respect. Football must be important for society. This game must help society to become better. It is crucial for the future of our children."

Facchetti's son, Gianfelice, said of Mr Platini's award: "His words today convinced me how well we have done in selecting the winner. He loves the game."