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Sport Europe
BAKURIANI 2025

ABOUT

The Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE) bring together small European states with populations of less than one million, uniting them in spirited sporting competition. They serve as a platform where athletes from Andorra to Montenegro gather to showcase their athletic talents.

Initiated by the NOC of Malta, the Association launched the first edition of the Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE) in 1985, held in San Marino. Since then, this multi-sport event, originally reserved for athletes from eight different countries, has been held biennially with increasing success. The addition of a ninth state, Montenegro, in 2009 further enriched the event.

The GSSE stand as a testament to the sporting excellence of Europe’s smaller nations, providing them a platform to exhibit their skills and potential, often overlooked on the global stage.

The Games are hosted biennially on a rota basis by the following countries:

  • Andorra
  • Chipre
  • Iceland
  • Liechtenstein
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Monaco
  • Montenegro
  • San Marino

The next GSSE will be held in Andorra in 2025.

MISSION AND VISION


“A chance for all to shine”
The Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE) embody a twofold vision of opportunity and unity. Their primary goal is to spotlight smaller states, offering them a platform to display their athletic prowess. The nine EOC members participating in the GSSE, each with populations smaller than 1 million, often struggle for global recognition. The Games provide a crucial opportunity for athletes from these nations to showcase their sporting talents.

Additionally, the GSSE aim to promote camaraderie among the nine members through friendly competition. Bringing together nearly 1,000 athletes from Europe’s smallest states, the event is highly esteemed by the participating countries, each taking turns to host the event.
Participating Countries:

• Andorra
• Cyprus
• Iceland
• Liechtenstein
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Monaco
• Montenegro
• San Marino

QUICK FACTS!

The Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE) unite small European states with populations under one million in spirited sporting competition. Initiated by the NOC of Malta, the first GSSE was held in 1985 in San Marino and has grown to include nine countries, with Montenegro joining in 2009. Nearly 1,000 athletes participate biennially, each event hosted by a different member country.
The Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE) unite small European states with populations under one million in spirited sporting competition. Initiated by the NOC of Malta, the first GSSE was held in 1985 in San Marino and has grown to include nine countries, with Montenegro joining in 2009. Nearly 1,000 athletes participate biennially, each event hosted by a different member country.
AROUND 9
COUNTRIES
SINCE 1985
6 INDIVIDUAL
SPORTS & 2 TEAM
SPORTS
LARGE
COMMUNITY
OF VOLUNTEERS