Rafael Louzán Receives the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara’s Science and Freedom Medal: “This Recognition Belongs to the Entire RFEF”

The Luis Garibay Gutiérrez Auditorium, located on the campus of the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara (UAG) in Zapopan, Mexico, hosted the ceremony at which Rafael Louzán was presented with the Science and Freedom Medal, one of the institution’s highest distinctions. Founded nearly a century ago, the university awards the honour to individuals whose work has made a significant contribution to society and to the advancement of their respective professions.

During his visit to the university, Louzán was welcomed by UAG Rector Antonio Leaño Reyes and members of the university’s leadership, with the institution’s anthem opening Thursday’s ceremony.

In his welcoming address, Rector Leaño explained that “today our institution presents the Science and Freedom Medal to a man in whom we recognise not only the highest representative of Spanish football, but also someone who has made leadership, the ability to unite collective efforts and excellence in management the hallmarks of his public service.”

He added: “Rafael Louzán understood from an early stage that football is not simply a spectacle for the masses, but also a vehicle for values, dedication and self-improvement. Through his forward-looking vision, he has modernised, internationalised and strengthened Spanish football institutionally. Spain will undoubtedly prove to be an outstanding host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, and I would also like to wish him and the Spanish national team every success in their upcoming World Cup match here in Guadalajara.”

In his acceptance speech, Louzán began by expressing his solidarity with the people of Venezuela following the devastating earthquakes that struck the country on Wednesday.

He then stated:

“I do not feel personally deserving of this recognition. I believe it belongs to the Royal Spanish Football Federation as a whole. I therefore accept this medal with great pride, but also with the responsibility that comes from representing values that we fully share: knowledge, freedom, dedication and a commitment to the progress of our societies.”

Reflecting on football’s wider social impact, he continued:

“Football brings together people who have never met before and allows them to celebrate side by side. It is passion, emotion and a sense of belonging, but it is also education, opportunity and progress. That is why it is especially meaningful to share these reflections here in Mexico—a country that shares far more with Spain than a common language. We share a way of understanding life, a deep commitment to bringing people together and a history that continues to unite us across the Atlantic. Few countries understand better than Mexico the power football has to unite people, inspire hope and create memories that endure for generations. That spirit will undoubtedly inspire all of us working towards the great challenge of hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup.”

During the ceremony, Ramón Neme Sastré, member of the university’s governing board and honorary doctorate recipient, delivered the official tribute to Louzán, describing him as:

“A person capable of bringing together institutions, communities and nations. The presence of the President of the RFEF here today strengthens the bonds between two sister countries, and sport will continue to be one of the great vehicles for bringing our peoples even closer together.”

Neme also thanked Spanish international legend Fernando Hierro and former Mexico international Oswaldo Sánchez for attending the ceremony as two iconic figures of World Cup football.

In his tribute, he praised Louzán’s “integrity, human qualities and constant willingness to build bridges where others see only borders,” adding that Mexico would always hold a special place in his heart following this visit.

Vice-Rector Antonio Leaño also underlined the significance of the award, noting that:

“Sport has never been merely a game; it is a school of life. That is how we understand it at this university. Education transforms people—it does not simply transmit knowledge.”

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Rafael Louzán was symbolically presented with the key to the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara, together with the Science and Freedom Medal, in recognition of his contribution to society and his leadership in promoting the values of sport on the international stage.