Malta Olympic Committee President Julian Pace Bonello has extended his warmest wishes to Team Malta as the national delegation prepares to take part in the 2025 Games of the Small States of Europe, hosted this year in Andorra.
“These Games represent more than just competition,” Pace Bonello said. “They symbolise unity, growth, and the spirit of sporting excellence among small nations. Our focus is to support our athletes in performing to the best of their abilities and to see them represent Malta with pride, determination, and dignity.”
As the team gears up for departure, two of Malta’s most accomplished athletes, Francesca Curmi and Jared Micallef, have been named flag bearers for the opening ceremony. Both athletes embody the values of dedication, excellence, and sportsmanship that Malta aims to project on the international stage.
The official send-off ceremony for Team Malta will take place on Saturday, 24th May at 11:00 am at the Marsa Sports Complex, where athletes, coaches, and officials will be celebrated ahead of their departure to Andorra.
Francesca Curmi, Malta’s top-ranked tennis player, is no stranger to historic milestones. A former junior world No. 52, she reached the semi-finals in doubles at the 2019 Australian Open Juniors and later became the first Maltese player to win a tennis medal at the Mediterranean Games, claiming silver in 2022. In 2023, she made her WTA main draw debut at the Palermo Ladies Open. With three ITF singles titles, two doubles crowns, and a 19–8 record in the Fed Cup, Curmi enters the GSSE with momentum and ambition.
Joining her as flag bearer is Jared Micallef, Malta’s national record holder in the 800m and 1500m. A multiple GSSE gold medallist, Micallef also shone at the 2024 Championships of the Small States of Europe and has represented Malta at top-tier events, including the European Championships. Splitting his time between Europe and Australia, Micallef brings not only speed and stamina but also a fierce competitive edge and a passion for inspiring younger athletes.
With a blend of experience and emerging talent, Team Malta is aiming for what could be its most successful GSSE performance outside of home soil. As the athletes prepare to compete across multiple disciplines, they carry with them not just national hopes but the spirit of unity and perseverance that defines the Maltese sporting identity.
Maltasport shall be giving extensive coverage to Team Malta live from Andorra during the GSSE.
