The XIX Games of the Small States of Europe have begun with a creative and well-attended Opening Ceremony at the Granaries in Floriana, in Malta.
More than 1,000 athletes from nine of Europe’s smallest countries will compete in 10 sports between 29 May and 3 June in the first edition of the Games since 2019.
Held in Malta for the third time, with the last of those being 2003, European Olympic Committees President Spyros Capralos was in attendance for the start of the Games.
International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach, in a speech read out on his behalf by President Capralos, thanked the Organising Committee and hailed the unifying spirit of the Games.
President Bach said: “The next days will be the time to make great memories. To experience unforgettable moments of sport – moments you have all been longing for.
“In sport everyone is equal, no matter who you are, or whether you come from a country that is big – or small. What really counts is a big heart and a great passion for sport. These games are a confirmation of the power of sport to unite us all.
“My congratulations to the Organising Committee, the officials and all the volunteers. In the Olympic spirit, enjoy the sport and enjoy the Games of the Small States of Europe!”
EOC President Capralos also thanked the Maltese Olympic Committee and the Malta government for their help in delivering the Games.
In his speech, he said: “In Malta, we have a host nation ready to put on a show for the 1,000 athletes competing this week. I am especially looking forward to seeing the successes of the host team in front of their home fans!
“Malta has always been known as a friendly and welcoming country. I have already been lucky enough to experience that warm welcome since arriving here thanks to the hospitality of Maltese Olympic Committee President Julian Pace Bonello and his team. I am sure that all of you are already enjoying it too.
“I would also like to thank the Maltese government for their support through Sport Malta. Without your backing these Games would not be able to happen.
“The memories for a lifetime that are about to happen are thanks to you.”
About the Games of the Small States of Europe
The Games of the Small States of Europe are a unique opportunity for the nine EOC member countries with populations under one million to come together for a multi-sport competition every two years. Andorra, Cyprus*, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco and San Marino have competed in every event since the inaugural one in 1985, while Montenegro was admitted in 2009. This is the first Games since 2019, with the 2021 edition scheduled to be held in Andorra having been cancelled due to the pandemic.
*Cyprus’ population was under one million in 1984 and they remain allowed to compete in the Games.
