Monaco’s participation in the 20th Games of the Small States of Europe was nothing short of exceptional. The Principality ended its campaign with a record 44 medals—16 gold, 13 silver, and 15 bronze—its best-ever performance at an away Games, outshining its previous record of 33 medals from Malta 2023.
A Week of Consistent Brilliance
From start to finish, the Monegasque athletes brought energy, discipline, and excellence to every event. Beach volleyball teams went undefeated to take double gold. Tennis player Valentin Vacherot dazzled with a gold in singles and a silver in doubles. The swimming pool witnessed Lisa Pou’s four-medal feat, including two golds, and strong showings from her teammates Ladislas Salczer and Issei Kim.
The rugby sevens squad was arguably the tournament’s most dominant team, not conceding a single point in the final and sealing a flawless run with a gold medal.
Women’s volleyball rebounded from early setbacks to claim bronze, and in cycling, Kevin Velasquez’s bronze added to the Principality’s multi-sport success.
Symbolic and Historic Moment
At the closing ceremony, David Tomatis received the official Games flag on behalf of Monaco, marking the Principality’s role as the next host in 2027. In an emotional address, he paid tribute to the athletes and the organizers, and affirmed Monaco’s dedication to hosting an unforgettable edition of the Games.
Looking to 2027
Set to take place from May 3 to 8, 2027, Monaco will host the Games for the third time in its history (after 1987 and 2007). The competition will feature required sports like athletics, swimming, judo, tennis, volleyball, and shooting, as well as optional disciplines like rugby sevens, artistic gymnastics, sailing, water polo, and pétanque.
The 2025 Games in Andorra will be remembered as the event where Monaco didn’t just participate—it led, inspired, and set new benchmarks. From the sand to the court, from the pool to the podium, the red-and-white flag flew proudly—and promises to do so again, even higher, in Monaco 2027.
Passing the Flag to Monaco
The closing ceremony marked a key moment: David Tomatis, member of the Monegasque Olympic Committee and president of the national shooting federation, officially received the Games flag.
He praised the Andorran organization and reaffirmed Monaco’s commitment to the next edition:
“On behalf of the Monegasque Olympic Committee, I would like to sincerely congratulate the organizing committee, state authorities, and all volunteers for your remarkable dedication, work, and achievements that made these 2025 Games in Andorra an extraordinary success.
And of course, thank you to all the athletes—you are the heart of the Games, through your performances and the values of sport that you embody and promote on the field.
We’ve had an exceptional week, full of passion and emotion. It is with humility, honor, and ambition that Monaco receives this Games flag for the third time in its history, after 1987 and 2007.
This handover is not only a responsibility, but a symbol of friendship, respect, and excellence that defines our community. Monaco is fully committed to offering an unforgettable experience to all delegations and athletes in two years.
The Monegasque Olympic Committee, presided over by Prince Albert II, already looks forward to welcoming you from May 3 to May 8, 2027.
Thank you. Daghe Mùnegu!”
