The ceremony, held at the Palau de Pedralbes, was attended by Felip VI, who stressed that talent alone is not enough, but needs to be accompanied, endorsed, and recognized by individuals and institutions. This claim was made within a global context of "profound transformations," where science and research play a fundamental role.

The awards, each endowed with 30,000 euros, recognize the trajectory and international relevance of outstanding researchers, as well as the merit of professionals under 40 years old with significant achievements. In this edition, a total of 20 researchers were honored, half of whom work in scientific institutions in Catalonia. Their research fields range from molecular biology and genomics to applied engineering, ecosystem studies, physics, chemistry, mathematics, artificial intelligence, and social sciences.

During the event, the Minister of Science, Innovation and Universities, Diana Morant, highlighted Barcelona's role as a benchmark in research in southern Europe, emphasizing its "generosity" and its contribution to Spain's voice in scientific consensus. She stated that "science is not a luxury, but a pillar of human rights" and that public science must develop in the interest of the common good.

The Monarch described Barcelona as a "reference city in Spain and Europe," where science, culture, and industry engage in dialogue with a clear international vocation. As an example, he cited the recent inauguration of the CaixaResearch Institute on April 24, the first center on the Iberian Peninsula dedicated to immunology research, with an investment of 100 million euros and capacity for 500 professionals.

Likewise, the figure of the Catalan Narcís Monturiol was recalled, a pioneer in submarine design in the 19th century, whose idea did not prosper due to a lack of economic support, underscoring the importance of funding for innovation.