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.