The Andorra National Stadium hosted a dazzling Opening Ceremony to kick off the latest edition of the Games of the Small States of Europe. Over 1,000 athletes representing nine National Olympic Committees are set to compete in 19 different sports throughout the week, culminating on Saturday, 31 May. This year also commemorates four decades since the first edition of the event, which debuted in San Marino in 1985. The Opening Ceremony showcased Andorra’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Among the notable guests in attendance were Xavier Espot Zamora, Prime Minister of the Principality of Andorra; International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach; members of the IOC; and European Olympic Committees President Spyros Capralos. Athletes from the participating nations marched into the stadium to warm applause from dignitaries, volunteers, and fans. Notably, three judoka were selected as flag bearers: Dario Alfonso of Liechtenstein (-73kg), Odysseas Georgakis representing Cyprus (-81kg), and Andorra’s own Lia Povedano Ruiz (-70kg).
The Games Cauldron was lit by two renowned Andorran athletes who competed at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games: 3,000m Steeplechase specialist Nahuel Carabaña and Canoe Slalom athlete Mònica Dòria.
The GSSE were officially declared open by the Co-Prince of Andorra, the Bishop of Seu d’Urgell. In his remarks, EOC President Capralos spoke about the vital role the event plays in European sport, emphasising how it helps athletes progress to major competitions like the European Games and the Olympic Games.
“These Games are a special event. You have all come from special places across Europe that we value very much. This week, the spotlight is on you, the nine NOCs who make these Games such a unique gathering. Over the coming days, you will create your own stories, and in doing so, you will make all of European sport stronger.”
President Capralos also conveyed the EOC’s appreciation to Prime Minister Xavier Espot Zamora, the Government of Andorra, the Organising Committee, and Andorra’s National Olympic Committee for their dedication and hard work in hosting the Games of the Small States of Europe for the third time.
IOC President Thomas Bach praised the GSSE for the platform it provides to the participating athletes and NOCs. “It is with deep emotion and gratitude that I thank you all for the warmth and friendship you have shown me at every edition of these Games,” said President Bach, attending the GSSE for the final time as IOC President. “It has always been a joy to be with you, because these Games are a true celebration of our Olympic values. In this Olympic spirit, let us enjoy these wonderful Games of the Small States of Europe in wonderful Andorra.”
For the first time, the Games of the Small States of Europe will be broadcast live on EOCTV.org, the result of a collaborative initiative between the EOC Channel and ANOC TV. This partnership aims to enhance the visibility of the event and provide broader exposure for the participating athletes. Watch Live Online: https://anoc.tv
Author: Szandra Szogedi