In a statement, AiMS, the Maltese Authority for Integrity in Sport, clarified its position regarding the 2025 edition of the Victory Day Regatta.
AiMS officials who were present at yesterday’s Regatta were there, as agreed with the National Regatta Association, to ensure that the races were conducted in accordance with the regulations and to uphold the highest possible level of integrity throughout the competition.
As part of its ongoing efforts, AiMS also conducted a number of anti-doping tests during the Regatta, following several educational sessions held with the rowers in the weeks leading up to the event.
“The aim was to ensure that the races were conducted according to the rules and that the highest possible level of integrity was maintained throughout the competition.”
AiMS introduced an innovative aerial monitoring system using drone technology, which was followed in real time by the Technical Commission during the races. This system was well received and appreciated by all clubs.
“AiMS provided an innovative aerial monitoring system via drone, which was followed by the Technical Commission during the races, a system that was well received and appreciated by all clubs.”
To further guarantee transparency and integrity during the races, the Maltese Authority for Integrity in Sport also installed on-board cameras on all boats in the ‘Open’ category and on several boats in the ‘B’ category.
These cameras were installed to allow, in the event of disciplinary action against a club or individual rower, the footage to be evaluated during the hearing process before the competent boards, in accordance with the Statute of the Regatta Association.
“In the case of disciplinary matters, footage can be evaluated during the hearing process, ensuring fair and transparent decision-making.”
As the national sports regulator, AiMS confirms that although it worked closely with the Executive Committee of the National Regatta Association to provide these services, it had no involvement in the organisation or logistics of this national event.
“AiMS had no involvement in the organisation or logistics of the event, focusing solely on integrity and compliance.”
The Authority for Integrity in Sport also reminds that, under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on 8 May 2024 between the National Regatta Association and SportMalta, full responsibility for organising the Regatta lies with the National Association representing this sport.
Aware that this agreement remains binding for both parties until the March 2029 edition, AiMS remains open to providing assistance when requested, with the aim of helping to ensure that the two national events held on 8 September and 31 March are better organised going forward.
“AiMS remains open to any request for assistance to help ensure that future editions of the Regatta are better organised.”
