AWARDS. Sky Diver Felix Baumgartner continues to be recognised as a member of the world’s sporting elite and his latest honour came at the Laureus World Sports Awards. The Austrian was handed the award for Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year at the ceremony in Rio de Janeiro.

Skydiver Felix Baumgartner poses with his trophy for "Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year" attends the Winners Press Conferences & Photocall at the Theatro Municipal Do Rio de Janeiro during the 2013 Laureus World Sports Awards on March 11, 2013 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo: Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images South America)

Millions watched live as Felix broke the sound barrier during his freefall from 128,100 feet last year. The successful Red Bull Stratos mission caught the world’s attention, including the 46 legendary sportsmen and sportswomen who sit on the judging panel of the Laureus World Sports Academy.
 
The prestigious Laureus World Sports Awards have the reputation as being the sporting world’s equivalent of the Oscars. At the ceremony, presented by Morgan Freeman and Eva Longoria, other winners included Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps.
 
Laureus World Sportsman of the Year: Usain Bolt
 Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year: Jessica Ennis
 Laureus World Team of the Year: European Ryder Cup Team
 Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year: Andy Murray
 Laureus World Comeback of the Year: Felix Sanchez
 Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability: Daniel Dias
 Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year: Felix Baumgartner
 Laureus Lifetime Achievement Award: Sebastian Coe
 Laureus Academy Exceptional Achievement Award: Michael Phelps

By Tim Sturtridge
RedBull.com
12 March 2013