Hans-Joachim Watzke & Borussia Dortmund FC Receive the “Hope Without Boundaries” Award from Sheba Medical Center in Switzerland

At Sheba Medical Center’s annual gala in St. Moritz, Switzerland last week, Borussia Dortmund’s CEO, Hans-Joachim Watzke, was honored with the prestigious “Hope Without Boundaries” Award for his fight against anti-Semitism from Sheba Medical Center.

As Hans-Joachim Watzke was unable to attend in person, Borussia Dortmund’s Anti-Discrimination Officer, Daniel Lörcher, accepted the award on his behalf.

Prof. Yitshak Kreiss, Director General of the Sheba Medical Center proudly proclaimed, “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.

The event, which drew the crème de la crème of Swiss society, also featured presentations from Yoel Har-Even, VP of Sheba Global and Prof. Evelyne Bischof, who heads Sheba’s fast-growing Longevity Center.