Malta delivered an impressive performance at the 12th Small States of Europe Karate Championships, securing 63 medals, including 12 gold, 13 silver and 38 bronze, to finish second in the overall medal standings.
Hosted by the Malta Karate Federation at the Cottonera Sports Complex between 9 and 11 October, the championships brought together 217 athletes from eight European nations: Andorra, Cyprus, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro and San Marino.
Malta’s participation extended across all age categories, with 70 athletes representing the nation in both kata (forms) and kumite (sparring) disciplines, from U14 through to senior level.
Malta enjoyed particular success in kata, securing eight gold medals. Individual gold medallists included Francesca Saliba, Dawn Dimech, Jake Vella, Jenna Awad Attia and Jessica Vella. Three further gold medals were claimed in the Female Senior Team Kata, Female U18 Team Kata and Male U18 Team Kata categories, highlighting the strength and depth of Malta’s athletes across different age groups.
In kumite, Zenden Seychell, Thyis Antonelli and Heorhii Denysov secured individual gold medals, while Malta also claimed gold in the Male U16 Team Kumite category. Several other athletes delivered strong performances, contributing to Malta’s impressive medal tally across individual and team events.
Malta also distinguished itself by winning 38 bronze medals, the highest number achieved by any participating nation. Eight Maltese athletes secured three medals each, reflecting the consistency and competitive standard demonstrated throughout the championships.
Beyond the athletes’ achievements, the championships also marked an important milestone for MKF officials, with Tarek Al Halabi, Eleonora Conti, Jade Conti and Kayla Formosa successfully passing their refereeing examinations in both kata and kumite, qualifying as Small States of Europe Karate Federation Judges. This achievement represents another positive step in strengthening MKFâs technical expertise and developing qualified officials within the sport.
The championships were officially inaugurated by the Hon. Byron Camilleri, Minister for Education and Sport, during the Opening Ceremony held on 10 October. The ceremony also featured an address by Malta Karate Federation President Mr Kenneth Abela, gymnastics performances by participants from the Let’s Move Malta Gymnastics Hub, and a rendition of the Maltese National Anthem by Junior Eurovision winner Chanel Monseigneur.
Cyprus topped the final medal standings with 66 medals, including 23 gold, followed by Malta with 63 medals and Iceland in third place.
âThe championships marked another significant achievement for the Malta Karate Federation, showcasing the dedication, talent and determination of our athletes and coaches, while recognising the invaluable contribution of our volunteers and helpers. Their collective efforts were instrumental in the success of the championships and further demonstrated our ability to host international sporting events,â commented Mr Kenneth Abela, President of the Malta Karate Federation.
Mr Abela expressed his sincere appreciation to SportMalta for its invaluable support throughout the organisation and delivery of the championships, recognising the dedication, professionalism and commitment of its team in contributing to the event’s success. He also extended his gratitude to the Maltese Olympic Committee, VisitMalta and the Ministry for Equality and Civil Rights for their valued support and contribution to this international sporting event.
The next edition of the Small States of Europe Karate Championships will take place in Montenegro in 2027.