The winner of the Charlemagne Prize 2026 at RWTH Aachen University Prof. Mario Draghi

Whether it was a visit by Emmanuel Macron, Chief Rabbi Pinchas Goldschmidt, Ursula von der Leyen, or one of the other Charlemagne Prize laureates, the emotional images and the lively conversations with visitors—especially the students—remain etched in our memories. Traditionally, on the day before the International Charlemagne Prize is awarded in Aachen, the designated laureates visit RWTH Aachen University, and so Prof. Mario Draghi will also speak in the auditorium of the RWTH main building and seek dialogue. Organized by students of the Leonardo project, the visit promises a special encounter with the former President of the European Central Bank and former Italian Prime Minister.

Admission: free | Registration at www.rwth-aachen.de/Karlspreis2026 is mandatory.

Organizers: RWTH Aachen University, International Charlemagne Prize, City of

AachenThe event is part of the official supporting program for the 2026 Charlemagne Prize award ceremony honoring former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi.