The Consell de Govern has announced the awarding of the Gold Medal of the Balearic Islands 2025 to two outstanding personalities: basketball player Rudy Fernández and lawyer and politician María Luisa Cava de Llano. This recognition, the highest distinction granted by the Autonomous Community, honours their exceptional careers and their contribution to the prestige and development of the Balearic Islands.

Rudy Fernández in a match with the Spanish national basketball team. Photo: FEB.

Rudy Fernández, born in Palma in 1985, retired from professional basketball in 2024 after a career filled with success. With an impressive record, he was a key player in the ACB with Joventut and Real Madrid, played in the NBA with the Portland Trail Blazers, and was an essential member of the Spanish national team, with which he won two Olympic silver medals, one bronze, two World Championships, and four EuroBasket titles.

Meanwhile, María Luisa Cava de Llano, born in Barcelona in 1948 but with a strong connection to Eivissa, has had a distinguished career in public service. A Law graduate from the University of Barcelona, she has held various institutional positions in the Balearic Islands and at the national level, including serving as Ombudsman in 2010 and as an elective councillor of the Council of State from 2014 to 2018.

The presentation of the 2025 Gold Medal of the Balearic Islands will take place on 28 February at the Llotja de Palma, in a ceremony celebrating the excellence and dedication of those who have contributed to the development and prestige of the archipelago.

Ramon Llull Awards

Additionally, the Consell de Govern has approved the granting of seventeen Ramon Llull Awards, recognising the work of individuals and organisations in areas such as culture, sport, research, and education. The awards ceremony will also take place on 28 February at the Llotja de Palma.

  • Anna Ferrer – President of the Vicente Ferrer Foundation, a leader in international cooperation.
  • Dr Dora Romaguera – Renowned scientist in epidemiology and nutrition.
  • Asunción Gallardo – Director of CEIP Gabriel Vallseca, advocate for educational inclusion.
  • Vicky Luengo – Mallorcan actress with a brilliant career in film, theatre, and television.
  • Agustín “El Casta” – A leading comedian in the Balearic Islands.
  • Joan Rallo i García – Agricultural engineer, promoter of Balearic agriculture and biodiversity.
  • Nil Riudavets Victory – Menorcan para-triathlete, bronze medallist at the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games.
  • Joan Munar Martínez – Paralympic athlete, bronze medallist in long jump at the 2024 Paris Games.
  • Tony Bonet – Adlib fashion designer, ambassador of Ibizan fashion.
  • AMADIBA – Association supporting people with intellectual disabilities and their families.
  • Grupo Piñero – A leading family business in the international tourism sector.
  • Mallorca Bartomeu Ensenyat School of Music and Dance – Dedicated to preserving Mallorcan folklore.
  • Formentera Fishermen’s Guild – Defender of artisanal fishing and traditional fishing practices.
  • Salesian Congregation of Ciutadella – 125 years dedicated to education and the youth of Menorca.
  • Balearic Contingent for Aid in Valencia – Recognition of the efforts of rescue teams during the 2024 DANA storm.

Posthumous Awards:

  • Rafael Perera Mezquida – Jurist and a leading figure in Balearic law.
  • Dr Bartolomé Beltrán – Doctor and broadcaster, former president of RCD Mallorca.