The curtain fell on the 20th Mediterranean Games in Taranto with a Closing Ceremony rich in symbolism, emotion and hope for the future of the Mediterranean Movement. Inside the renovated Stadio Erasmo Iacovone, athletes, officials and spectators celebrated the conclusion of twelve unforgettable days of competition before turning their eyes towards the next chapter: Prishtina 2030.

The most powerful moment of the evening came under the sounds of the Mediterranean Anthem. As the anthem echoed throughout the stadium, the Mediterranean Flag was slowly lowered from the mast for the final time at Taranto 2026, bringing to an end Italy’s successful hosting of the Games.

The Mediterranean Flag was officially delivered to the delegation of Kosovo, led by the Mayor of Prishtina, Përparim Rama. As the flag changed hands, the stadium witnessed a defining moment for Kosovo sport, marking the beginning of the final four-year countdown to the largest multi-sport event ever to be organised in the country.

The raising of the Kosovo flag and the presentation of Prishtina 2030 were greeted with warm applause from athletes and spectators alike. For Kosovo, the moment represented not only the acceptance of the Games but also recognition of its growing role within the Mediterranean sporting family. The handover also highlighted one of the defining values of the Mediterranean Games: every edition is not an ending but a bridge to the future.

The traditional Parade of Flags, with each participating delegation represented by two flagbearers, added colour and pride to the ceremony. The parade was followed by an artistic programme celebrating the culture, creativity and Mediterranean identity of the host region, bringing the festivities to a memorable conclusion.

Just after the symbolic transfer of the Mediterranean Flag, the Acting President of the International Committee of the Mediterranean Games (ICMG), First Vice-President Mehrez Boussayene, officially declared the XX Mediterranean Games Taranto 2026 closed.

Taranto leaves behind a legacy of sporting excellence, urban regeneration and regional cooperation, while Prishtina now assumes the responsibility of carrying forward the Mediterranean spirit and preparing to welcome thousands of athletes from across the three continents bordering the Mediterranean Sea.

As the final celebrations illuminated the night sky above Taranto, the message was clear. The Games that united the Mediterranean in Puglia have come to an end, but the journey continues.