The 38th edition of the Onubenses of the Year awards has its sports category finalists. After a thorough analysis of submitted proposals, the official jury has selected five candidates: referee Alejandro Quintero, athlete María Forero, footballer Fermín López, canoeist Daniela García, and the Huelva U16 Nordic Walking Team.
María Forero, a long-distance runner, has been recognized for her established career in Spanish athletics. She holds titles such as U20 European Cross Country Champion and U23 European silver medalist in track and cross country. She also holds the U23 Spanish 5,000 meters record and was the 2025 U23 European champion. Her consistent progress positions her as a strong contender for the national team at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, while balancing elite competition with her nursing studies.
Footballer Fermín López, originally from El Campillo, stands out as a key player for F.C. Barcelona and an international figure with the Spanish National Team. Considered one of football's great prospects, he was a champion in the 2024 European Championship and a gold medalist at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, playing a leading role in both successes.
Referee Alejandro Quintero has been nominated for his upward trajectory, placing him among Spain's most distinguished officials. He has become the first from Huelva to achieve FIFA international status starting in 2027. Following his promotion to the First Division in 2024, he has established himself in the national elite with his reliability, personality, and on-field management skills, with appearances in UEFA appointments.
The Huelva U16 Nordic Walking Team has been selected for winning their sixth consecutive Andalusian Championship, solidifying their status as the regional benchmark in the discipline. This achievement underscores Huelva's dominance in Nordic walking and its role as a breeding ground for young talent.
Daniela García, a world runner-up in 4K with the Spanish canoeing team, is another recognized young talent. Her career has been marked by effort and international success, establishing her as a national reference in youth categories and representing Spain in major championships.
The jury will reconvene on July 23rd for vote counting and the proclamation of the winners. The Special Jury Prize Ana Vives Casas will also be awarded at this meeting.
