Team Malta is set to begin its campaign at the 20th edition of the Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE), running from May 26 to June 1, 2025, in Andorra la Vella. Following a record-breaking performance as hosts in 2023, Malta is eager to maintain its momentum and demonstrate its sporting prowess on this international stage.
Leading the delegation with pride are flag bearers Francesca Curmi and Jared Micallef. Curmi, a rising star in tennis, has impressed with a silver medal at the 2022 Mediterranean Games and a breakthrough into the WTA main draws. Micallef, Malta’s national record holder in the 800m and 1500m, brings valuable experience, having previously secured multiple GSSE golds and represented Malta at European competitions.
Malta’s athletes will compete in a wide range of sports that highlight the nation’s growing versatility and commitment to athletic excellence. These disciplines include artistic swimming, basketball 3×3, cycling, artistic and rhythmic gymnastics, karate, rugby 7s (men), shooting, swimming, table tennis, and tennis.
Following the opening ceremony on Monday evening, Malta’s athletes are ready to begin their competitive journey on Tuesday, May 27th.
The day will kick off with the basketball 3×3 tournaments, where Malta’s men’s and women’s teams face challenging group stage matches. The men’s team opens their campaign against Andorra at 10:30 AM, followed by the women’s team taking on Cyprus at 11:00 AM. The men will then face Cyprus at 11:30 AM. These early matches will be vital in determining Malta’s chances of advancing to the semifinals scheduled for the following day.
At the Els Serradells Sports Centre, five Maltese gymnasts will showcase their skills in artistic gymnastics, competing in both individual and team events. In fact, Philippa Busuttil, Lyana Curmi Inguanez, Janet Galea, Julia Galea and Sophie St John will try to showcase their potential in this sport. Their performances could bring Malta valuable points and potentially some medals as they demonstrate strength and grace on the international stage.
Swimming events also commence, running from May 27th through 29th. Malta’s swimmers will participate across various heats, aiming to set personal bests and challenge for medals in a highly competitive field. The athletes are Victoria Balderacchi, Dylan Cachia, Nathan Cachia, Zoe Cawsey, Andrei Enache, Sasha Gatt, Kyle Micallef, Nirvana Micallef, Michela Portelli, Matthew Satariano and Sean Wareing.
Cycling enthusiasts will be watching closely as Malta’s cyclists Daniel Bonello, Luke Borg, Aiden Buttigieg, John Camilleri, Clyve Chetcuti, Bernard Galea, Andrea Mifsud, Diana Muscat, Emma Pratt, Jess Pratt, Stefan Scerri, Deborah Schembri and Jacob Schembri tackle the time trial event in El Serrat. This race tests the riders’ endurance and speed, with athletes striving to post top times and secure important results for the team.
Table Tennis doubles are being held while tennis players await the draws before going in action tomorrow.
With a strong and diverse team, Malta enters the GSSE with high hopes.
