The New Zealand national rugby team today has today honoured with the 2017 Sports Princess of Asturias Award.
“They have enjoyed extraordinary sporting successes and reflect great values such as solidarity and sportsmanship,” said a statement from the jury, who chose between 24 nominations.
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Those sentiments were echoed by the president of the jury Abel Anton, who was full of praise for the work of the All Blacks.
“They represent a shining example of racial and cultural integration which has helped drive New Zealanders of different origin, symbolised by the haka tribal dance, showing the bond with their roots and ancestral heritage,” he said.
The awards look to honour individuals, entities or organizations from around the world who make notable achievements in the sciences, humanities, and public affairs.
The first ever winner was Team GB’s Sebastien Coe while other big names to win the prestigious award includes F1 driver Michael Schumacher, tennis player Rafael Nadal and footballers Iker Casillas and Xavi.