The Executive Committee of the International Committee of Mediterranean Games (ICMG) reached a series of important decisions during its meeting held in Ljubljana, Slovenia.

Following productive discussions with FIFA, the ICMG has confirmed the inclusion of both men’s and women’s futsal in the official sports program of the 21st Mediterranean Games, scheduled to take place in Pristina in 2030. Futsal will officially replace U21 football.

This decision supports the continued growth of futsal—a fast-paced, increasingly popular sport—and aligns with the ICMG’s commitment to enhancing gender inclusivity in the Games. Additionally, the shift is expected to reduce the overall cost of organizing the football tournament.

The Executive Committee also extensively reviewed the progress of the 2026 Mediterranean Games in Tarantο. Concerns were raised regarding ongoing delays in the preparation schedule. The ICMG Coordination Commission presented a comprehensive report and expressed its concerns about the proper functioning of the Organising Committee.

In response, ICMG President Mr. Davide Tizzano will meet on Monday 14th of April, with Italy’s Minister of Sport, Mr. Andrea Abodi. The agenda includes the immediate formation of a joint oversight committee to monitor progress and guarantee compliance with the established deadlines. Furthermore, the ICMG is urging for the immediate reinforcement of the Organizing Committee’s workforce through the hiring of experienced, specialized professionals.

Progress on the preparation for the Pristina 2030 Mediterranean Games was presented, following the first edition of the Organizing Committee’s official charter.

In relation to the Mediterranean Beach Games “Portimão & Lagoa 2027”, the ICMG announced plans for an official visit to Portugal in order to resolve pending matters in close collaboration with the newly elected leadership of the Portuguese Olympic Committee.

Mr. Cayetano Cornet, member of the Executive Committee from Spain, read a letter from the Spanish Olympic Committee officially withdrawing the city of Alicante’s bid to host the 2031 Mediterranean Beach Games. The decision follows the catastrophic floods that devastated the region in October, resulting in tragic loss of life and widespread destruction.

In response, the ICMG unanimously expressed its deepest sympathy and solidarity with the people of the affected areas, as well as its full support for the Spanish Olympic Committee, a founding member of the ICMG.

The Εxecutive Committee also approved a proposal by ICMG President Mr. Davide Tizzano to integrate the CONI Sports Center in Formia, Italy, into the beach sports development programs carried out by the Mediterranean National Olympic Committees.

ICMG Secretary General Mr. Iakovos Filippousis presented a detailed report on the organization’s activities over the past three months. Notably, he announced the implementation of a comprehensive safeguarding program for the Taranto 2026 Mediterranean Games, aligned with Olympic standards and the core principles of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The planning and implementation of the program will be assigned to an IOC-certified Wellness Officer.

Mr. Filippousis informed the Executive Committee on the progress of the ICMG digitization project, which is currently underway and is scheduled to be completed by July 2026.

Finally, ICMG Treasurer Mr. Giotis Ioannidis presented a thorough overview of the Committee’s financial status, highlighting its excellent economic health. The organization continues to maintain and grow its budget surplus, reflecting the values of sound governance and responsible financial management.

Prior to the official start of the ICMG Executive Committee meeting, the President of the Slovenian Olympic Committee, Mr. Franjo Bobinac, and Secretary General Mr. Uroš Mohorič welcomed the members of the Executive Committee.

Mr. Bobinac extended his heartfelt welcome to the members of the Mediterranean sports family and expressed his appreciation for the ICMG’s presence and support during the recent Session of the International Olympic Committee held in Greece. “Let us continue working together to make the world a better place through sport,” Mr. Bobinac concluded.

In his response, ICMG President Davide Tizzano thanked the President and the Slovenian Olympic Committee for their outstanding hospitality and the impeccable organization of the Executive Committee’s proceedings, which were held for the first time in its history in Ljubljana.

Following the welcome remarks, the President of the Slovenian Olympic Committee exchanged commemorative gifts with ICMG President Mr. Davide Tizzano, in the presence of both organizations’ Secretaries General, Mr. Iakovos Filippousis and Mr. Uroš Mohorič.