In a world where conflict threatens the dreams of millions, a simple card is turning the tide—one #WhiteCard at a time. On April 6, 2025, the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace will transform from a quiet celebration into a global rallying cry, and it all began in Monaco.
A Royal Launch with a Bold Message
Under the Mediterranean sun on March 26th and in the presence of H.S.H. Prince Albert II, Monaco the stage was set for the #WhiteCard 2025 campaign—a symbol of hope and a call to action for the 460 million children living in conflict zones. From the streets of Monaco to the farthest corners of the world, leaders, athletes, and everyday citizens were urged to raise their white cards as a pledge to harness the power of sport for peace, education, and inclusion.
Joël Bouzou, Peace and Sport President and Founder, stated: “From Monaco, this launch sends a strong message to the international community: we must act to make sport a driving force for peace and education. Thanks to the support of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco and our Champions for Peace, we aredemonstrating the positive impact of peace through sport programmes for future generations.”
Sport: The Ultimate Game Changer
Sport isn’t just about scoring goals or breaking records. It’s about building bridges where walls once stood. As the campaign’s creators remind us, when a child learns to pass a ball or race to a finish line, they’re not just playing—they’re learning respect, teamwork, and the invaluable art of dreaming big even in the face of adversity. The initiative, backed by Peace and Sport for over a decade, proves that with a little creativity and a lot of heart, even the smallest gestures can ignite monumental change.
Stars Align for Peace
What’s a campaign without a sprinkle of celebrity magic? The #WhiteCard initiative has gathered a constellation of sporting legends to amplify its message. From Didier Drogba’s magnetic leadership to Egan Bernal’s Tour de France triumphs, and from Zakia Khudadadi’s inspiring journey as a Paralympic champion to Mike James’ record-breaking performances on the basketball court—the lineup is as dazzling as it is diverse. These champions remind us that sports aren’t just games; they’re powerful tools for unity and transformation.
Nakia Khudadadi – is a Hazara parataekwondo practitioner. She is the first Afghan female taekwondo practitioner. She spoke to HelloMonaco about the millions of women and children that this day gave her an opportunity to support … and especially the refugees to whom she sends her love.
More Than Just a Game
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the heart of the campaign lies in its impact on real lives. In conflict-affected areas, where over one in six children struggle to access safe play areas and proper education, sport offers a lifeline. With every #WhiteCard raised, the international community is sending a message to world leaders: it’s time to invest in our children’s futures. After all, when kids can kick a ball and share a laugh, they’re also building the foundations for a more peaceful, inclusive world.
Marlène Olivia Nidecker, Canada, is an Olympic medalist, philanthropist and Knight of the National Order of Merit, decorated by the President of the French Republic. She shared to HelloMonaco about her prior support for young athletes in Africa and her Foundation that identified and helped young Africans to succeed in their journey to the Olympics in Rio in 2016. And now for 8 years Marlene has worked with Peace and Sport to leverage her ability to help even further.
The Road Ahead: Rallying for Change
As the campaign rolls out, a series of dynamic events are scheduled to spread the message far and wide—from school rallies in Monaco led by Princess Charlène to screenings of inspiring documentaries in Paris. Every event, every gesture, and every white card is a step toward a world where sport isn’t sidelined by conflict, but celebrated as the heartbeat of social change.
So, as you go about your day, remember: Whether you’re a global superstar or simply someone with a passion for change, your white card can be a game-changer. Join the movement, share your peace, and together, let’s turn the spirit of sport into a lasting legacy of hope and unity.
Maro Engel is a German professional racing driver based in Monaco. He is a Mercedes-AMG factory driver since 2008 & brand ambassador since 2017. He told HelloMonaco he had joined Peace and Sport very early on. To him it was a no-brainer as an opportunity to influence and inspire young people and promote peace globally using sport as a neutral platform.
Raise your #WhiteCard and be part of the journey towards a world where every child can play, learn, and dream—because where there is sport, there is always peace.
To mark the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, Peace and Sport is inviting athletes, institutions,
organisations and citizens from all over the world to take part in the #WhiteCard campaign to amplify this message of hope and unity on 6 April 2025.
