Malta is once again set to host one of the most prestigious events in European waterpolo as the Champions League Final 4 returns to the National Pool in Tal-Qroqq between 30 May and 1 June. This marks the second time the tournament is being held on the island, following the success of last year’s edition, and is being organised by the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA) in collaboration with SportMalta and the Ministry for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation.
Speaking at a press conference held on Tuesday, Minister Clifton Grima described the tournament as proof of the success of Malta’s continued investment in sport. “Hosting the biggest competition in water polo here in Malta is a clear indication that our strategic focus on sports development is yielding positive results. This only motivates us to continue strengthening this sector,” he stated.
ASA President Karl Izzo offered further insight into preparations, confirming that this year’s edition will expand on last year’s format, including the return of the Sporting Village. He also revealed that the event will be broadcast locally and across several international networks, helping to place Malta firmly on the global water polo map.
Mark Cutajar, CEO of SportMalta and Chair of the Organising Committee, emphasised SportMalta’s central role in ensuring a smooth and successful event. “It is thanks to collaboration between sports organisations and public entities that Malta is continuously able to attract major international competitions. Our role is to support and deliver excellence in the execution of these events,” Cutajar said.
This year’s Final 4 will also serve as the official inauguration of a new €135,000 permanent lighting system at the National Pool. The state-of-the-art setup promises to elevate the experience for athletes and fans alike across all aquatic sports held at the venue.
Alongside the Champions League, the SportMalta Cup will be held in the same week, featuring Malta’s top four domestic water polo clubs in the second edition of this national tournament.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, a Fan Zone will be set up on the day of the Final, featuring live entertainment, food stalls, and a performance by popular Maltese band Tikka Banda, making the event a true celebration of both sport and culture.
To ensure safety and smooth logistics, access by car to the National Pool will be restricted between 30 May and 1 June, with the road leading to the pool near St Monica School closed to traffic. Visitors are encouraged to park at the University Football Ground, which will be open to the public during the event.
Ticket information:
- Day Ticket: €60
- Block Ticket (All Matches): €85
Tickets go on sale from Monday 21 April and will be available via www.showshappening.com.
To engage young fans, free tickets will also be distributed to all water polo nurseries across the island, ensuring the next generation of players can experience the action live.
As for the competition itself, the race to secure a place in the Final 4 is heating up. In Group A, Marseille (France) and Novi Beograd (Serbia) are currently tied on nine points each from four games, while Olympiacos (Greece) trails with five points. In Group B, Ferencvaros (Hungary) leads with ten points, followed by Barceloneta (Spain) with eight, and Savona (Italy) close behind.
