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Cyprus tops the medal table as Andorra shines as host of the GSSE 2025

Written by jose.rivas on . Posted in GSSE, Sports, Summer Sports. No Comments on Cyprus tops the medal table as Andorra shines as host of the GSSE 2025

The Principality of Andorra is experiencing a historic week as it hosts the 20th edition of the Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE), taking place from 26 to 31 May. With over 800 athletes from nine countries, Andorra has become a vibrant stage for sport, culture, and achievement. As the Games enter their final stretch, the medal table tells a compelling story of fierce competition — with the host nation emerging as one of the standout performers both on and off the field.

🥇 Cyprus sets the pace

Cyprus leads the medal table with an impressive 22 golds, 23 silvers, and 32 bronzes, totalling 77 medals. Its athletes have excelled particularly in athletics, gymnastics, and swimming, reaffirming the country’s dominance at this level of international sport.

🥈 Iceland and Luxembourg in close pursuit

Iceland holds second place with 21 golds and 54 total medals, buoyed by strong individual performances across various disciplines. Luxembourg follows closely behind, having secured 18 golds and 56 medals overall, in what has been one of the most competitive editions of the GSSE to date.

Andorra: proud host and rising sporting force

One of the most inspiring stories of these Games is the performance of the host nation. With 10 gold, 2 silver, and 8 bronze medals (20 in total), Andorra is delivering one of its best performances in GSSE history.

Highlights include gold-medal wins from Nahuel Carabaña (3000m steeplechase), Pol Moya (800m), and Jess Martin(10,000m), who have thrilled local fans with stellar runs on home soil. In swimming, Kevin Teixeira claimed gold in the 800m freestyle, while the debut of karate at the GSSE featured powerful performances from Paula González and Maria Ubiergo, aged just 16, who took gold and bronze respectively.

🎭 An opening steeped in symbolism

The opening ceremony at the Estadi Nacional set the tone for the week, blending Andorran folklore with modern spectacle. Over 4,000 spectators watched as traditional figures like the Dama Blanca and the mythical tamarro paraded alongside folk dancers and fallaires. The torch was lit in a moving moment by Olympic athletes Mònica Doria and Joan Verdú.

With two days of competition remaining and several finals still to be contested, the medal standings could yet shift. However, Andorra has already proven itself a remarkable host and a nation on the rise in sport. The GSSE 2025 will be remembered not just for the medals won, but for the spirit, pride, and unity displayed throughout the Principality.

Sandro Bazadze and Enver Yildirim Shines in Madrid at the “Villa de Madrid” Men’s Sabre World Cup

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Madrid, Spain — The Polideportivo Municipal Gallur in Madrid became the heart of the fencing world this weekend as it hosted the prestigious “Villa de Madrid” Men’s Sabre World Cup, bringing together 257 elite individual fencersand 28 national teams. Yet, by the end of the competition, all eyes were firmly on two standout names: Sandro Bazadze of Georgia and Enver Yildirim of Türkiye.

Bazadze Claims Gold with Authority

Georgia’s Sandro Bazadze proved once again why he is one of the premier sabreurs on the international stage, capturing the individual gold medal with a commanding performance throughout the event. In the final bout, he showcased composure and clinical execution to defeat Türkiye’s rising star Enver Yildirim by a decisive 15-8.

Bazadze was dominant from the early rounds, but truly impressed in the semi-final, where he faced Korea’s Gyeongdong Do. The Georgian held his nerve in a closely contested match, eventually winning 15-13. With a blend of tactical intelligence and athletic sharpness, Bazadze reaffirmed his reputation as one of the sport’s finest competitors.

Yildirim’s Breakthrough Performance

Despite finishing with silver, Enver Yildirim was undoubtedly the breakout star of the tournament. The Turkish fencer stunned the field with a series of sensational upsets, most notably in the round of 16, where he edged past reigning Olympic and World Champion Sanguk Oh of Korea, 15-14. That victory sent shockwaves through the fencing community and marked Yildirim as a serious contender.

Yildirim continued his impressive run by defeating the Italian fencer Michele Gallo  in the quarter-finals and then overcame Korea’s Sangwon Park in the semi-finals, again by 15-13. With fast-paced attacks, emotional intensity and fearless decision-making, Yildirim reached his first-ever World Cup final, establishing himself as a formidable presence on the world stage.

High Drama in a World-Class Field

The tournament featured numerous surprises. Among the most notable was the early elimination of Hungary’s Aron Szilagyi, the three-time Olympic champion, who was beaten 15-13 in the round of 32 by Germany’s Matyas Szabo. Fellow Hungarian and World Champion Andras Szatmari also exited early, falling 15-9 to Sebastien Patrice in the last 16.

The final eight fencers in the individual event were Bazadze (GEO), Yildirim (TUR), Gyeongdong Do (KOR), Sangwon Park (KOR), Sebastien Patrice (FRA), Fares Ferjani (TUN), Jean-Philippe Patrice (FRA), and Michele Gallo (ITA).

France Dominates the Team Competition

In the team sabre event, France clinched gold with a convincing 45-34 victory over Hungary in the final. The French squad displayed tactical cohesion and technical superiority, having previously overcome Romania in the semi-finals, 45-41. Hungary had reached the final after narrowly defeating the United States in a thrilling 45-44 encounter. The bronze medal went to Romania, who beat the USA 45-40 in the third-place match.

A Tournament to Remember

The “Villa de Madrid” World Cup proved to be a thrilling chapter in the 2024–25 fencing season, not just for its competitive excellence, but for the compelling stories it brought to light. Sandro Bazadze delivered a masterclass in consistency and control, while Enver Yildirim captured the imagination of fans with his fearless rise to the final. Madrid played host to world-class fencing – and two unforgettable performances that will be talked about for months to come.

European Canoe Slalom Elite Meet in Vaires-sur-Marne

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The 2025 Canoe Slalom European Championships, held from 14 to 18 May in Vaires-sur-Marne (France), concluded with a strong showing from the host nation, particularly in the kayak cross discipline. The event brought together many of Europe’s top paddlers in one of the key competitions of the whitewater calendar.

Kayak Cross: Home Advantage Counts

French athletes delivered notable performances in kayak cross — a fast-paced and tactical discipline involving head-to-head racing through a slalom course.

  • Camille Prigent was crowned European champion in the women’s event, displaying consistency and control throughout the elimination rounds and final.
  • In the men’s event, Boris Neveu reached the final and stood out as one of the key performers, underlining France’s strength in the discipline.

Balanced Podiums and High-Level Competition

The championships featured strong competition across all categories, with medals shared among traditional slalom nations including Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia and Great Britain.

Events were held in both individual and team formats across C1 (single canoe), K1 (single kayak) and kayak cross, for both men and women. The field featured a mix of experienced paddlers and emerging talents, contributing to a technically demanding and engaging championship.

For full results and further details, visit the official website of the European Canoe Association: www.canoe-europe.org

Countdown to the Start of the Games

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Just two weeks to go until the Games of the Small States of Europe Andorra 2025 kick off, and you can already feel the buzz in the air. Banners are going up on lampposts and balconies, and sports venues are being fine-tuned in every detail. With the clock ticking down, we already know the key elements that will give this edition its personality: the mascot, the torch, and the cauldron have all been unveiled.

Now, all eyes are on the final team lists. National squads are putting the finishing touches on preparations, some have already announced preliminary line-ups, and the confirmed athletes for events like athletics, swimming, judo or cycling should be announced any day now. For many of these competitors, the Games are a major milestone—a chance to represent their country in an event that blends sport, culture and connection.

Valiret, the official mascot

Valiret will be the friendly face of the Games. He’s a tamarro—a mythical forest creature from the Pyrenees—given a modern and approachable look. The name was chosen through a public vote and reflects Andorra’s close link to nature, especially its rivers, which bring life and energy to the country. Valiret also nods to the past, reviving the spirit of the 1991 Games—the last time Andorra hosted the event.

A torch inspired by mountains, unity and tradition

The official torch is packed with symbolism. Designed by creative studio Aymara, its shape mimics the silhouette of Comapedrosa, Andorra’s highest peak. Engraved at the base are the names of the country’s seven parishes, a reminder of unity and shared effort. The torch is surrounded by seven metallic rings, representing each parish. Built from stainless steel, the design is clean and sturdy, and the flame inside stands for the Olympic spirit—but also the light that guides those hiking through the mountains. The torch is set to tour all seven parishes before arriving at the National Stadium for the opening ceremony.

The cauldron – still under wraps

The cauldron design is still a secret, but we know it’s the work of Andorran sculptor Toni Cruz. Built from iron, it ties into the country’s mining heritage and aims to represent collective effort, resilience and support. Cruz wants this piece to honour not just athletes, but also the coaches, families, medical staff and volunteers who’ve helped make the journey possible. The big reveal will come on the opening night—when the torch flame arrives and the cauldron is lit to officially launch the Games.

Final touches and growing excitement

As the start date gets closer, preparations are shifting into high gear. Volunteers are in training, delegations are beginning to arrive, and training sessions are picking up pace. Everything needs to be ready—from venue signage to transport schedules between the different sites. For many in Andorra, this is a chance to show the world their warm welcome, organisational skill and love of sport.

Andorra 2025 is shaping up to be a close-knit edition where it’s not just about winning, but also about sharing. With almost everything in place, all that’s left is to welcome the teams, confirm the final names, and get things underway.

European Hopes Narrow as Portugal Advance to Semi-Finals in Seychelles

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The quarter-finals of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Seychelles 2025™ offered a mixed picture for European nations. While Portugal progressed to the semi-finals after a tense and high-scoring match against Japan, both Spain and Italy were eliminated, ending their campaigns earlier than hoped.


Portugal remain the sole European representative in the semi-finals, following a closely fought 7-6 win over Japan. The match featured moments of high intensity and tactical depth, with Portugal relying on its core of experienced players to manage the flow of play. Jordan and Bê Martins were instrumental once again, combining effectively in attack and offering leadership during critical stages. While Japan pushed them to the limit, Portugal’s ability to maintain composure in the final period proved decisive.


Having won the world title twice before, Portugal’s presence in the final four underscores their continued prominence on the global stage. Their balance of technical skill, discipline, and familiarity with high-pressure fixtures remains a key asset as they prepare for the next round.


Spain, who had shown flashes of promise in the group stage, were unable to match Brazil’s pace and power in their quarter-final encounter. The 6-0 defeat was the most decisive result of the round and marked a disappointing end to a campaign that had raised expectations. Spain struggled to create clear chances and were quickly forced onto the back foot by a Brazilian side that pressed high and moved the ball with speed and confidence.


The Spanish defence found itself overwhelmed, and with limited time in possession, La Roja were unable to impose their game plan. Despite the scoreline, the experience gained in this edition will serve the Spanish squad as they continue building towards future competitions.
Italy’s quarter-final clash against Senegal was a more balanced affair, with the European side narrowly losing 4-3 in a contest that remained open until the closing stages. Italy showed tactical discipline, maintaining a compact defensive shape and looking to exploit space on the counter-attack. Their game plan yielded periods of control, but Senegal’s efficiency on set pieces and clinical finishing tipped the scales.


The Italian side depart Seychelles with credit, having shown maturity and a clearer tactical identity. While the result was disappointing, there were positive signs for the future, particularly in terms of squad cohesion and adaptability.


Portugal now turn their attention to a semi-final showdown against Brazil, scheduled for Saturday, 10 May. The fixture promises a compelling clash of styles, with Europe’s last standing nation facing the defending champions. Portugal’s ability to maintain structure and absorb pressure will be tested against a Brazilian side known for its creative play and scoring power.


While only one European team remains, the continent’s overall performance in Seychelles demonstrates the growing depth and competitiveness of beach soccer programmes. Spain and Italy, though ultimately eliminated, displayed improvements in team organisation, player development, and strategic planning.


Portugal’s presence in the semi-finals offers a continued European challenge at the highest level. As the Games reach their conclusion, SportEurope will continue to follow the continent’s remaining contender in the hope that Europe might once again contest a world title.

Raffaeli Triumphs at European Cup in Baku

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In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Italy’s Sofia Raffaeli clinched the Cross Battle title at the European Cup held in Baku. The event, which showcased some of the continent’s finest gymnasts, saw Raffaeli excel in her routines, demonstrating both technical precision and artistic flair.

Raffaeli’s performance was characterised by her fluid movements and innovative choreography, which captivated both the judges and the audience. Competing against a strong field of athletes, she managed to stand out through her ability to blend strength with grace, earning high scores across multiple apparatus.

© CONI – Comitato Olimpico Nazionale Italiano

The Cross Battle format added an exciting twist to the competition, with gymnasts facing off in head-to-head challenges. This format not only tested their individual skills but also their ability to perform under pressure. Raffaeli navigated these challenges with poise, showcasing her extensive training and preparation.

Throughout the event, the atmosphere in Baku was electric, as fans rallied behind their favourite gymnasts. Raffaeli’s accomplishment adds to her growing list of achievements, further solidifying her reputation as one of the leading figures in European gymnastics.

 

As the competition concluded, Raffaeli expressed her gratitude for the support she received and highlighted the importance of events like these in fostering camaraderie among athletes.

Looking ahead, Raffaeli and her fellow competitors will continue to prepare for upcoming challenges, with eyes set on future competitions where they hope to further demonstrate their skills and passion for the sport.

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The Final Countdown: Five Days to EYOF Bakuriani 2025 Start

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The stunning Georgian ski resort of Bakuriani is ready to welcome Europe’s finest young athletes as it plays host to the 2025 Winter European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF). Taking place from the 9th to the 16th of February, this prestigious event will see approximately 2,000 competitors, aged 14 to 18, from 48 European nations, competing across eight thrilling winter sports disciplines.

The festival’s sporting events will be staged across three key locations:

  • Bakuriani – The heart of the festival, hosting alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, freestyle skiing, and snowboarding.
  • Tbilisi – Ice hockey will be played at the Leader Arena in the Georgian capital.
  • Batumi – The Black Sea coastal city will showcase figure skating and short track speed skating at the newly developed Batumi Ice Arena.

The Girl’s Ice Hockey competition is going to be the first event to go live at the Festival, with preliminary games starting next Thursday, February 6th, in Tbilisi. Sweden, Finland, and Czechia are expected to be strong contenders for medals in the Girl’s competition. Meanwhile, Switzerland, Czechia, and Latvia are the teams to keep an eye on in the Boy’s event.

Athletes to Watch

Several promising young athletes are set to compete in Bakuriani 2025, each bringing remarkable talent and ambition to the event. For example, Zak Carrik Smiz (GBR), an exceptional apline skier. At the Gangwon 2024 Winter Youth Olympic Games, Zak made history by becoming the first British skier to win a gold medal in an Olympic alpine skiing event. He achieved this milestone in the men’s combined event, where, after placing 27th in the Super-G, he delivered an extraordinary slalom run that propelled him to the top of the podium. In addition to his success in the combined event, Zak further showcased his talent by securing another gold medal in the men’s slalom event at the same Games, solidifying his position as one of Britain’s most promising young skiers.

A Stage for Future Champions

As the opening ceremony draws near, excitement is building among athletes, officials, and sports enthusiasts alike. The Winter EYOF Bakuriani 2025 promises not only to be a spectacular showcase of young talent but also a demonstration of Georgia’s rising stature in global winter sports.

Stay tuned for an unforgettable week of athletic excellence, camaraderie, and inspiring moments in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains.

The 2025 European Figure Skating Championships: A Showcase of Talent in Tallin

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The 2025 European Figure Skating Championships are set to take place in the capital of Estonia, Tallinn, from January 28 to February 2, 2025. This marks a historic moment for the city, as it hosts the prestigious competition for the first time ever. The event will be held at the Tondiraba Ice Hall, a state-of-the-art venue known for its modern facilities and exceptional acoustics.

As the skating community gathers in Tallinn, excitement is building both among athletes and fans alike. The championship will showcase some of the world’s best figure skaters, competing for coveted medals in multiple categories, including Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Pairs, and Ice Dance.

Tallinn’s selection as the host city for this year’s championships is a significant milestone for Estonian figure skating. The city is buzzing with excitement, as fans are eager to witness top-tier performances from the world’s leading athletes. The Tondiraba Ice Hall, which will serve as the event’s main venue, offers a perfect backdrop for the competition, providing an atmosphere that is both intimate and thrilling.

Tallinn is hosting the 2025 European Figure Skating Championships for the second time. The city previously hosted the event in 2015, marking the first time Estonia had the honor of welcoming the European Championships.

Exciting Competitions Ahead

As the 2025 European Figure Skating Championships get underway, the competition promises to be fierce. Top skaters from all over Europe are set to compete for gold, silver, and bronze in their respective categories. The Men’s and Women’s Singles events are expected to be particularly thrilling, with fierce rivalries between established stars and rising talents.

The Pairs competition will showcase stunning synchrony, athleticism, and grace, as duos from across Europe demonstrate their technical skill and artistic expression. Meanwhile, the Ice Dance competition will be a true display of artistry, with couples bringing their passion and creativity to the ice in a highly anticipated battle for the gold medal.

A Platform for Future Olympic Stars

Beyond the European titles up for grabs, the 2025 Championships are also a key opportunity for athletes to showcase their skills as they prepare for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina. For many skaters, this competition serves as a critical stepping stone on their journey toward Olympic glory. The European Championships are known for providing a platform for skaters to prove their readiness for the highest level of international competition.

As the skaters take to the ice in Tallinn, the 2025 European Figure Skating Championships promise to be a celebration of the sport, bringing together fans and athletes in an unforgettable showcase of talent and artistry.

Photo:OIS/IOC

Ilona Plecháčová: Biathlon’s Brightest Young Talent

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Ilona Plecháčová, born on 26 December 2006, is promptly emerging as one of the brightest talents in the world of biathlon. Representing the Czech Republic, this young athlete has already carved out an impressive career, capturing the attention of sports enthusiasts and competitors alike. At just 18 years old, Plecháčová exemplifies determination, precision, and a knack for excelling under pressure.

Growing up in the picturesque landscapes of the Czech Republic, Ilona was introduced to winter sports at an early age. Her initial foray into skiing and shooting soon blossomed into a full-fledged passion for biathlon.

2024 marked a milestone year in Plecháčová’s career. During the Winter Youth Olympic Games in Gangwon, South Korea, she made history by winning the first biathlon gold medal for the Czech Republic. Competing in the individual event, her flawless shooting and consistent skiing ensured her place at the top of the podium. This historic victory not only highlighted her talent but also underscored her potential to dominate in senior-level competitions.

Her success continued later that year at the Junior Cup held in Jakuszyce, Poland. Competing in the women’s sprint event, Plecháčová secured a commanding victory, showcasing her impeccable shooting accuracy and tactical prowess on the course. With a perfect score in shooting, she demonstrated the mental fortitude and focus required to excel in this demanding sport.

Plecháčová’s performance statistics further solidify her reputation as a formidable athlete. According to data from the International Biathlon Union (IBU), she achieved a remarkable 96% accuracy in prone shooting and 70% in standing shooting during the 2024/2025 season. Her skiing efficiency, averaging +9.6 seconds per kilometre compared to the fastest competitors, reflects her technical expertise and physical conditioning.

Beyond her athletic prowess, Ilona Plecháčová is quickly becoming a role model for young athletes in her home country and beyond. Her dedication to the sport, combined with her humility and work ethic, resonates with fans and aspiring biathletes. By breaking records and overcoming challenges, she inspires others to pursue their dreams with the same passion and commitment.

Looking Ahead

As she transitions from youth to senior competitions, Plecháčová’s future in biathlon looks exceptionally promising. With the 2025 World Championships and future Olympic Games on the horizon, she stands poised to further cement her legacy. The biathlon community eagerly awaits her next performances, anticipating more record-breaking moments from this extraordinary athlete.

Ilona Plecháčová is not just a rising star in biathlon; she is a testament to what can be achieved with talent, hard work, and unyielding determination. As she continues her journey, the world will undoubtedly be watching closely, cheering her on every step of the way.

Croatia, Denmark, and Norway to host the 2025 Men´s Handball World Championship

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From 14 January to 2 February, the world’s 32 best men’s handball teams will compete to claim the 2025 World Championship. For the first time, this prestigious tournament will be hosted by three countries, with matches taking place across five venues in five host cities: Zagreb, Varaždin, Poreč, Bærum, and Herning. Denmark, not only a host nation but also the reigning triple world champion, enters the competition aiming to defend their titles from 2019, 2021, and 2023.

In the preliminary round, the 32 teams are divided into eight groups of four. The top three teams from each group will progress to the main round, while those that do not qualify will compete in the President’s Cup to determine positions 25 to 32. During the main round, the remaining teams will be organised into four groups of six. The top two teams from each group in the main round will qualify for the quarter-finals. The gold and bronze medal matches are scheduled for 2 February in Oslo, Norway.

After the opening days of the tournament, Germany, Denmark, France, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Egypt are leading their respective groups. However, two groups have yet to play their first matches.

Guinea made history on Wednesday, 15 January, as they played their first-ever match in an IHF Men’s World Championship. The favourites for the title include Denmark, who are seeking their fourth consecutive championship, as well as France, Norway, Spain, and Sweden.

Photo credit: IHF.