SportMalta Recognition Night 2026, Celebrating Sport in Malta

The SportMalta Recognition Night 2026, celebrating sport in Malta, took place as a prestigious evening dedicated to honouring individuals and organisations that had made outstanding contributions to the Maltese sporting landscape. The event brought together key figures from government, national federations, athletes, administrators, volunteers, and stakeholders who had worked tirelessly to elevate sport across the island.

The event brought together representatives from government, national federations, athletes, administrators, volunteers and key stakeholders, reflecting the collective effort behind Malta’s sporting development. Hosted by Pamela Schembri and Gilmor Agius, the ceremony placed emphasis on the wider social impact of sport, in line with SportMalta’s mission to use sport as a driver of wellbeing, inclusion, sustainability and national development.

Investment in high-quality infrastructure was recognised through the award presented to the Malta Tennis and Padel Federation represented by Dr Marc Gingell Littlejohn, for collaborating with SportMalta to build a high-level sporting venue. The modern facility improved training and competition opportunities for athletes while supporting the continued growth of tennis and padel in Malta, reinforcing the importance of long-term development.

Sport’s role in promoting environmental responsibility was highlighted through the recognition of the European Aquatics Waterpolo Champions League Final 4 Malta 2025 Local Organising Committee, for raising awareness about the environment through a sporting event. By integrating sustainability initiatives into a major international competition, the organisers demonstrated how sport could promote eco-conscious behaviour and environmental awareness.

Professor Charmaine Gauci received recognition for her dedication to promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles within the workplace. Her efforts highlighted the importance of regular exercise in improving both physical and mental wellbeing. Through national campaigns and public health initiatives at the workplace, Prof Gauci had encouraged employees to adopt healthier habits, contributing to a more productive and resilient workforce across Malta.

For her commitment to using sport as a tool for inclusion, Dr Lydia Abela was honoured. Her initiatives focus through Special Olympics Malta on engaging minority groups and providing equal opportunities for participation in physical activity. By supporting programmes that welcomed individuals from diverse backgrounds, Dr Abela helped foster social integration and demonstrated how sport could break down barriers and promote unity.

Malta’s growing international sporting profile was recognised through the award presented to the Rolex Middle Sea Race, for putting Malta on the international sporting map. The prestigious offshore yacht race continued to attract elite sailors and global media attention, showcasing Malta’s maritime heritage and strengthening its reputation as a world-class sporting destination.

Dedication to SportMalta’s values was honoured through the recognition of Rita Carbonaro, for her unwavering work towards athletes and the community. Her work with Frame Football Malta promoted inclusive participation for individuals with disabilities, reflecting the organisation’s commitment to accessibility and opportunity.

Community engagement and generosity were celebrated with the award to Norbert Grixti, for fostering generosity and community through sport. Through the Santa Swim initiative, sport was used as a platform to support charitable causes while strengthening social bonds within the community. His efforts highlighted how sport could extend beyond competition to become a powerful force for positive social change.

During the recognition night Pierre Brincat was honoured for his strong leadership and continuous support for Women’s Football in Malta. His contributions has helped create opportunities for women athletes to grow, develop, and succeed. His vision and commitment had left a lasting impact on the women’s football sector, inspiring future generations of leaders.

Lifelong service to sport was honoured through the recognition of Anna Calleja, for lifelong dedication to Maltese sport through Special Olympics Malta. Over the years, she had contributed tirelessly to the development and inclusion of athletes, programmes, and sporting structures through Special Olympics Malta.

SportMalta Chairman Matthew Pisani addressed those present, highlighting the organisation’s continued commitment to strengthening Malta’s sporting ecosystem through investment, collaboration, and long-term strategic planning. He emphasised the importance of recognising not only sporting success, but also the people and values that sustained Maltese sport.

Underlining the importance of innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability, SportMalta Chief Executive Officer Mark Cutajar focused on SportMalta’s operational achievements and future vision. He expressed the value of ensuring that sport remained accessible to all, while continuing to raise standards across the sector.

The ceremony was officially closed by the Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation, Hon. Clifton Grima, who commended the award recipients for their dedication and contributions. He highlighted sport’s role in promoting healthy lifestyles, strengthening national identity and positioning Malta as a respected sporting nation internationally.

The SportMalta Recognition Night 2026 concluded as a powerful reminder that sport in Malta was about more than competition. It was about community, opportunity, wellbeing and social impact. Through the stories shared and the awards presented, the evening reinforced SportMalta’s mission to ensure that sport remained a force for positive change across Maltese society.