Kambundji and von Allmen Honored as Bern’s Athletes of the Year
Bern, Switzerland – Ditaji Kambundji and Franjo von Allmen have been recognized as the Bern Athletes of the Year for 2025, the canton announced. The awards were presented at the annual Sports Awards Kanton Bern.
Recognizing Top Performances
The awards honor athletes who achieved podium finishes at World and European Championships, or other high-profile international events, between September 1, 2024, and August 31, 2025. Over 50 medalists were honored at the ceremony held in Bern.
Athletes of the Year
Ditaji Kambundji was named “Berner Sportlerin des Jahres” (Bern Sportswoman of the Year), although Franjo von Allmen took the title of “Berner Sportler des Jahres” (Bern Sportsman of the Year).
Rising Stars and Team Achievements
Aurelia-Maxima Janzen (rowing) and Mark Lüthi (BMX) were recognized as the Nachwuchstalente des Jahres (Youth Talents of the Year). The OL-Männerstaffel (men’s orienteering relay team) received the Teampreis (Team Award).
Honoring Athletes with Disabilities
Fabian Recher was awarded as “Berner Sportlerin oder Sportler des Jahres mit Beeinträchtigung” (Bern Sportswoman or Sportsman of the Year with a Disability) for his achievements in para-cycling.
Special Recognition
The Berner Sportbär (Bern Sports Bear) was awarded to Imke Wübbenhorst, the head coach of BSC YB Frauen. Special prizes were likewise given to long-distance runner Daniel Knöpfel and mountaineer Nicolas Hojac.
The Winners at a Glance
Berner Sportlerin des Jahres: Ditaji Kambundji
Berner Sportler des Jahres: Franjo von Allmen
Berner Nachwuchssportler des Jahres: Aurelia-Maxima Janzen, Mark Lüthi
Berner Team: OL-Männerstaffel
Berner Sportlerin oder Sportler des Jahres mit Beeinträchtigung: Fabian Recher
A Celebration of Swiss Sporting Success
The Sports Awards Kanton Bern serve as a platform to celebrate the accomplishments of Bernese athletes on the international stage.
The event highlighted the dedication and skill of athletes across a variety of disciplines, reinforcing Bern’s commitment to supporting sporting excellence.
FAQ
- Who were named Bern’s Athletes of the Year in 2025? Ditaji Kambundji and Franjo von Allmen.
- What criteria were used to select the winners? Athletes were recognized for achieving podium finishes at major international competitions between September 1, 2024, and August 31, 2025.
- Who received the Team Award? The OL-Männerstaffel (men’s orienteering relay team).
Did you know? The awards ceremony honored over 50 medal-winning athletes.
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