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Michel Stalport, President of the European Hotel Awards 2026, embodies an international vision of hospitality founded on excellence, leadership and professional integrity. With an exceptional career spanning some of the world’s leading hospitality organisations, he brings extensive experience and strategic perspective to the recognition of Europe’s most distinguished hotels and hospitality professionals.
An International Career Dedicated to Hospitality Excellence
Michel Stalport is a highly respected figure in international hospitality, whose professional career reflects decades of leadership, operational expertise and strategic development.
Educated at the Hotel School of Namur and the prestigious Ecole Hoteliere de Lausanne, he developed his career within major international organisations, including Hilton International, The Walt Disney Company and Radisson Hotel Group.
Throughout his professional journey, Michel Stalport has held senior management and executive positions, from Regional Director of Food & Beverage to Vice President responsible for Eastern Europe and Russia.
His extensive international experience has provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the hospitality industry, its operational challenges, management philosophies and evolving expectations.
Today, as a Senior Advisor, he continues to contribute his expertise and strategic perspective to the development of international hospitality.
A Presidency Guided by Independence and Professional Excellence
As President of the European Hotel Awards 2026, Michel Stalport supports a distinctive philosophy of professional recognition based on independence, expertise and a comprehensive understanding of the European hospitality landscape.
Unlike conventional competitions, the European Hotel Awards are founded on a qualitative selection process that recognises the individual identity, achievements and professional values of each distinguished establishment or personality.
The selection philosophy places particular emphasis on leadership, operational consistency, guest experience, service excellence and the ability to sustain exceptional standards over time.
Under this approach, hospitality excellence is recognised not simply through visible achievements, but through the coherence of an establishment’s vision, its management and the experience delivered to its guests.
Recognising the Women and Men Behind European Hospitality
One of the defining principles of the European Hotel Awards is the recognition of the professionals whose dedication and expertise contribute to the success of the hospitality industry.
Hotel owners, general managers, operational executives, chefs, restaurateurs and tourism leaders all play an essential role in shaping the reputation and quality of European hospitality.
Michel Stalport’s international career gives particular significance to this human dimension of the profession, highlighting the importance of leadership, team development, professional commitment and the transmission of expertise.
The European Hotel Awards recognise not only outstanding properties and organisations, but also the individuals and teams whose daily commitment transforms hospitality into a genuine art of welcoming guests.
European Hotel Awards 2026 – An Exceptional Edition on the Italian Riviera
The European Hotel Awards 2026 took place on 28 September 2026 at the prestigious Grand Hotel del Mare Resort & Spa in Bordighera, Italy.
Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and surrounded by magnificent subtropical gardens, the establishment provided an elegant and distinguished setting for this international celebration of hospitality excellence.
The ceremony brought together leading hospitality professionals, distinguished laureates, international executives, tourism representatives and partners from across Europe.
Beyond the presentation of distinctions, the event encouraged professional exchanges and strengthened the relationships between individuals sharing a common commitment to the future of European hospitality.
A Long-Term Vision for European Hospitality
Through its independent selection philosophy, the European Hotel Awards contribute to promoting a sustainable and meaningful vision of professional excellence.
The evolution of guest expectations, technological innovation, environmental responsibility and changing management practices continues to transform the hospitality sector.
Within this constantly evolving environment, the values of authenticity, consistency, human connection and professional dedication remain fundamental.
Michel Stalport’s experience and international perspective reinforce the European Hotel Awards’ commitment to recognising establishments and individuals capable of combining innovation with the enduring traditions of European hospitality.
Celebrating the European Hotel Awards 2026 Laureates
The 2026 laureates represent the diversity, creativity and excellence of the European hospitality industry.
Each distinction acknowledges an individual achievement, a remarkable professional journey or the outstanding identity and performance of an establishment.
Under the presidency of Michel Stalport, the European Hotel Awards continue to affirm their commitment to an independent and demanding process of recognition, celebrating the people, organisations and values that contribute to the international reputation of European hospitality.
The European Hotel Awards 2026 stand as a tribute to professional achievement, exceptional leadership and the enduring pursuit of excellence.
Michel Stalport
President 2026
European Hotel Awards
Official Website:
www.european-hotel-awards.com
Tags: EHA President 2026, European Hospitality Excellence, European Hotel Awards 2026, European luxury hotels, Grand Hotel del Mare, hospitality leadership, Hospitality Recognition, hotel industry awards, International Hotel Management, Michel Stalport
