16 October 2025
On 16 October 2025, the Ambassador of France to Portugal, Hélène Farnaud-Defromont, on behalf of the President of the French Republic, presented Leonor Beleza, President of the Champalimaud Foundation, with the insignia of Knight of the French Legion of Honour, the oldest and most prestigious French Order.
The distinction recognises in addition to Leonor Beleza’s outstanding contribution to strengthening the friendship between Portugal and France, her lifelong dedication to causes of shared importance including the promotion of democracy, the advancement of gender equality, the improvement of healthcare systems, and the support of medical and scientific research.
The ceremony took place at the French Embassy in Portugal, at the Palácio de Santos, in the presence of the highest-ranking dignitaries.
In her thank you speech, Leonor Beleza recalled her strong connection to France, one that began with learning the French language, with its precision and rigour, qualities she carried into other aspects of her life. She expressed gratitude to those who influenced her path and left an indelible mark on her journey, including Simone Veil and Jacques Delors.
