The prestigious ACES Annual Gala will take place on Thursday, December 11th, at the European Parliament in Brussels (Alcide de Gasperi Hall).

The event, hosted by ACES Europe President Gian Francesco Lupattelli together with honorary presidents Andrey Kovatchev and Giusi Princi, will gather representatives from more than 700 municipalities to celebrate excellence in sports promotion, inclusion, health, and sustainability.

During the Gala, Baku will be officially crowned World Capital of Sport 2026, while Naples and Guayaquil will receive the titles of European and American Capitals of Sport 2026, respectively.

In total, over 70 awarded cities and regions from across the world will take the stage to receive their official flags, symbolizing their commitment to sport as a tool for education, social cohesion, and well-being.

The ACES Gala stands as one of the most emblematic annual moments for the international sports community, uniting mayors, institutional leaders, and representatives of cities that share a common vision: promoting sport for all and strengthening its role as a driver of positive change in society.