SportMalta Participates in EU Peer Learning Activity on Sport Tourism in Salzburg

SportMalta attended the European Union Peer Learning Activity on sport tourism, held on 25 and 26 June 2026 in Salzburg City in Austria. The two-day event, co-funded by the European Union and organised under the Austrian Federal Ministry for Housing, Arts, Culture, Media and Sport, brought together sport and tourism officials from across EU member states to examine sport tourism as a driver of economic growth and regional development.

SportMalta was represented and delivered a presentation on Malta’s approach to sport tourism. The activity focused on sport as a driver of tourism, examining data-based insights and policy impact through presentations, keynote addresses and panel discussions on the current landscape of sport tourism across Europe and its potential for policy development.

Malta’s Sport Tourism Offer

SportMalta’s presentation outlined the role that sport tourism plays within Malta’s wider tourism strategy, noting its importance in attracting visitors beyond the peak summer season. Malta’s mild climate, coastal environment and modern sports facilities were highlighted as key assets, with the country’s offer spanning football and athletics training camps, diving and water sports, sailing and yachting, and open-water swimming competitions. Cooperation between SportMalta and the Malta Tourism Authority supports shared objectives including diversifying tourism products, reducing seasonality and supporting local economic development through sports events and training camps.

Major International Events

Malta’s recent hosting record formed a central part of the presentation. SportMalta managed the National Pool Complex at Tal-Qroqq and the Cottonera Sports Complex for the World Aquatics Water Polo World Cup Division 2 in 2026, and supported the European Aquatics Champions League Final Four, both of which attracted international athletes, officials and supporters. The annual Rolex Middle Sea Race, departing from the Grand Harbour, and the Traditional Regatta, organised twice yearly by SportMalta, were also cited alongside Special Olympics Malta as events combining sporting and cultural value with measurable tourism impact.

Looking Ahead

Malta’s participation in the Salzburg peer learning activity reflects SportMalta’s ongoing engagement with European sport policy networks and its commitment to positioning the island as a year-round destination for sporting activity and international competition.