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The Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE) is a multi-sport event dedicated to these select countries which have a population of less than one million inhabitants. The nine participating countries are Andorra, Cyprus, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, and San Marino.  Originally, there were only eight members to the Games. Montenegro became the ninth country added to the Games in 2009.

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The Games were created following a proposal made from Maltese officials in 1985. Every two years, a city representing one of the participating countries is appointed to be the host. The Games commence at the end of May or at the start of June each year.

There are currently ten sports, including: Athletics, Basketball, Beach Volleyball, Cycling (road), Gymnastics (artistic), Judo, Shooting, Swimming, Table tennis, Tennis, and Volleyball.

Host Cities and Nations

The first event was held in San Marino in 1985.

Interesting Facts:

• A team representing the Vatican was invited to compete in the Games of the Small States of Europe in 2019 under observer status. They were granted official status for the 2021 Games, though the event was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
• The 2021 event was originally scheduled to be held in Andorra, but were postponed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The Faroe Islands continue to seek competition at the Games but they have been denied entry due to the fact that they are neither an independent state nor a European Olympic Committee member. The Faroe Islands remain an autonomous part of Denmark. The Faroe Islands were, however, invited as observers at the 2019 Games.

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Related Pages

• About the European Games
• Multi-Event Games of Europe
• Other International Multi-Events
• Multi-Sport Events (Games) Calendar