When you’ve already rewritten gravity for a living, the next trick is trying to bend the world a little. Simone Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history and a four-time Laureus Sportswoman of the Year, has now added another line to a frankly ridiculous CV: Laureus Ambassador, and frontline voice for girls and young women who see sport as more than just a scoreboard.
A New Chapter in Milan, Not on the Mat but in the Community. Biles’ first outing in her new role wasn’t on a competition floor under blinding lights, but in a community gym in Milan. She visited Polisportiva Garegnano, a Laureus-supported gymnastics and multisport project tucked into the city’s everyday fabric, where the chalk dust hangs in the air and the dreams are very much real.
The project offers safe, inclusive spaces for children and young people – particularly girls – to build confidence, resilience and life skills through sport. On this occasion, the most famous gymnast on the planet walked in, tied up her hair and went to work the old-fashioned way: showing up, listening and staying long enough that it didn’t feel like a photo op.
When greatness meets purpose, history tends to follow.
That’s exactly what happened when Laureus signed global gymnastics icon Simone Biles in a strategic move that could reshape the landscape of girls’ sports worldwide.
But this isn’t just another celebrity endorsement. It’s not about logos on jerseys or red-carpet appearances. This is about influence, access, equity—and giving young girls permission to dream bigger. Let’s unpack why this partnership matters more than you think.
The Power Behind the Laureus Name
Founded with the belief that sport can change the world, Laureus has built a reputation as one of the most influential organizations in global athletics philanthropy.
What Is Laureus?
Laureus is an international foundation dedicated to using sport as a tool for social change. Through community-based programs across continents, Laureus supports initiatives that tackle inequality, violence, discrimination, and lack of access to sport.
Their message is simple: sport is more than competition—it’s transformation.
Why Laureus Needed a Global Icon
To expand its impact on girls’ participation in sports, Laureus needed someone who represents excellence, resilience, and authenticity.
Enter Simone Biles.
Simone Biles—More Than an Olympic Champion
You probably know her for the medals. The gravity-defying routines. The dominance at events like the Olympic Games.
But Simone Biles’ legacy goes far deeper.
A Career Built on Breaking Barriers
Simone Biles is widely considered the greatest gymnast of all time. Her record-breaking performances redefined what was physically possible in women’s gymnastics.
Yet her true power? It lies in her voice.
Advocating for Mental Health and Athlete Safety
When Biles made the courageous decision to step back during the Tokyo Olympics to prioritize her mental health, she changed the global conversation about athlete well-being.
Suddenly, strength wasn’t just about sticking a landing—it was about knowing when to pause.
That message resonates with girls everywhere.
Why This Partnership Is a “Power Move”
Let’s be honest—sports still don’t offer equal opportunities to girls around the world. Participation drops sharply during adolescence. Funding gaps persist. Cultural barriers remain stubborn.
So when Laureus signs Simone Biles, it sends a signal.
Visibility Equals Possibility
Young girls need role models who look like them, speak like them, and understand their struggles.
Simone Biles isn’t just a decorated athlete—she’s proof that talent plus courage can change narratives.
By aligning with Laureus, she amplifies programs that give girls access to coaching, safe spaces, and competitive opportunities.
Strategic Influence on a Global Scale
This isn’t a local campaign. Laureus operates worldwide, meaning Biles’ influence now stretches across continents.
Think of it like a spark hitting dry grass. The impact spreads fast.
The State of Girls’ Sport Today
Let’s zoom out.
Globally, millions of girls lack consistent access to sport. Social pressures, financial limitations, and safety concerns often push them out before they reach their potential.
The Dropout Problem
Studies consistently show girls leave organized sport at higher rates than boys during teenage years. Why?
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Lack of representation
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Body image pressures
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Limited leadership pathways
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Cultural stereotypes
This partnership tackles those issues head-on.
Confidence Beyond the Field
Sport teaches more than technique. It builds resilience, teamwork, and leadership.
When girls stay in sport, they’re more likely to:
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Graduate
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Pursue leadership roles
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Advocate for themselves
Simone Biles embodies those outcomes.
How Simone Biles Elevates Laureus’ Mission
This collaboration isn’t symbolic—it’s tactical.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Biles’ story—from foster care to Olympic legend—offers hope to girls who feel overlooked.
Her presence in Laureus programs adds credibility and inspiration that statistics alone can’t deliver.
Real Stories, Real Impact
When a young gymnast in a community program sees Biles advocating for her right to compete, something clicks.
She thinks, “If she can, maybe I can too.”
That shift in mindset? That’s powerful.
The Business and Branding Angle
Let’s not ignore the strategic brilliance here.
Aligning Values With Influence
Brands and foundations increasingly align with athletes who stand for something meaningful. Biles’ authenticity makes her a trusted voice—not just a famous one.
Expanding Audience Reach
Laureus gains access to younger demographics through Biles’ digital presence. Meanwhile, Biles strengthens her role as a global advocate beyond gymnastics.
It’s synergy at its finest.
Representation Matters More Than Ever
For girls of color especially, visibility at the highest levels of sport can be life-changing.
Simone Biles’ leadership shows that excellence doesn’t require conformity. It thrives in individuality.
When institutions like Laureus elevate voices like hers, the message travels farther than medals ever could.
What This Means for the Future of Girls’ Sport
Imagine a world where:
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Girls have equal access to facilities
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Coaches are trained in safeguarding and inclusion
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Funding reflects participation rates
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Leadership roles are gender-balanced
That future starts with intentional partnerships.
And this one feels intentional.
The Ripple Effect Beyond Gymnastics
Although Biles built her legacy in gymnastics, her influence extends to soccer fields, basketball courts, swimming pools, and beyond.
Multi-Sport Impact
Laureus supports programs across dozens of sports. Biles’ endorsement amplifies them all.
Policy and Advocacy Potential
With her global profile, Biles can influence policy conversations about funding, safeguarding, and athlete development structures.
That’s not small change—that’s structural evolution.
Why This Moment Feels Different
We’ve seen athlete partnerships before. So what makes this one special?
Timing.
Girls’ sports are experiencing increased visibility, from record-breaking viewership to growing sponsorship investments. But momentum needs leaders.
Simone Biles stepping into this role feels less like marketing—and more like movement-building.
The Emotional Core of the Partnership
At its heart, this collaboration is about belonging.
Every girl deserves to feel like she has a place in sport.
When Simone Biles stands with Laureus, she’s not just lending her name. She’s extending a hand.
Final Thoughts—More Than a Signature
This isn’t about contracts. It’s about commitment.
By signing Simone Biles, Laureus has made a strategic, emotional, and cultural investment in the future of girls’ sport.
And honestly? It feels overdue.
When icons align with purpose-driven institutions, the impact multiplies.
This partnership has the potential to inspire millions—not just to compete, but to believe.
Conclusion
The signing of Simone Biles by Laureus marks more than a headline—it marks a turning point. It signals that girls’ sport deserves not only celebration but structural support. It shows that influence, when paired with intention, can shift cultures. And it reminds us that true greatness isn’t just measured in medals—but in opportunities created for others.
If sport can change the world, then partnerships like this are how it starts.