Luis de la Fuente named an Illustrious Riojan, with La Rioja sports palace also set to bear his name

Luis de la Fuente says he feels “overwhelmed” by the tributes that have followed Spain’s World Cup victory, but especially by the affection he has received in La Rioja. The regional government has decided to make that recognition permanent.

President Gonzalo Capellán announced that De la Fuente will receive La Rioja’s highest distinction, Riojano Ilustre, traditionally awarded on the region’s day on June 9. The government will also rename its principal sports facility, the Palacio de los Deportes, after the coach from Haro.

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overwhelmed

Capellán made the announcements after receiving De la Fuente at a news conference. He said the coach represented the pride of having a Riojan leading a world champion football team and highlighted the national profile he has brought to the region. He also recalled that another coach with Riojan roots, Alberto de la Fuente, is part of Spain’s staff.

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there is no one who deserves it more this year, because of the pride we feel in him

The president said the decision had been taken early by the regional cabinet because “there is no one who deserves it more this year, because of the pride we feel in him.” De la Fuente will join a list of Riojan honorees that includes mountain-bike Olympic medalist Carlos Coloma, pelota player Titín III and Paralympic athlete Fernando Riaño.

Capellán said naming the sports palace after the coach would preserve his mark for the future and reflect the spirit and values of sport. De la Fuente, who was due to deliver the opening address at the festival in his hometown of Haro, said he was “happy to see my fellow citizens enjoying themselves” and found it difficult to control his emotion. He said he felt recognized in Spain and deeply loved across La Rioja.

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happy to see my fellow citizens enjoying themselves