The Royal Malta Golf Club will host the 2026 European Team Shield Championships from 29 July to 1 August, bringing together 18 nations for one of the biggest international golf events ever held in Malta.
Organised by the European Golf Association (EGA), the championship was established in 2016 to give smaller and emerging golfing nations the chance to compete at international level while supporting the growth of the sport across Europe.
Speaking during a press conference, Malta Golf Association President William Beck outlined the programme for the five-day event and confirmed that Malta will compete in both the men’s and women’s competitions.
The men’s team will be captained by Ruud Critien, who will also play alongside Andrew Borg, Oliver Davis and JJ Micallef Verlest. The team will be coached by Nicholas Zaher, with Andreas Schwab serving as assistant coach.
The women’s team will include Eliana Buhagiar, Laya Cristina, Serena Falzon Sant Manduca and Filipps Schulze Doering, under the captaincy of Noah Gratil.
A total of 18 countries and 96 players, together with their coaches and officials, are expected to take part in the championship. The event is also expected to boost Malta’s reputation as a destination for sports tourism and international sporting events.
SportMalta Chairman Matthew Pisani said golf continues to grow in Malta and highlighted SportMalta’s commitment to encouraging more people to take part in sport while supporting national associations. He added that Malta’s selection as host reflects the country’s ability to organise major international competitions.
Representing SportMalta, Mark Cutajar said the Government remains committed to developing sports tourism. He explained that SportMalta works closely with national sports associations to attract international events, helping to improve local sporting standards while also benefiting the economy and tourism sector.
Marsa Sports Club Chairman Godwin Borg said the club continues to invest in its facilities, which now cater for golf, tennis, padel, squash and cricket. He wished the Malta Golf Association every success in hosting the championship.
Royal Malta Golf Club Vice Chairman Victor Satariano added that significant improvements have been made to the course, especially the USGA-standard greens, to ensure they are ready for elite competition. He said the club’s committee continues to work voluntarily to improve the facilities and believes the event will provide excellent exposure for both the club and Malta.
