During the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 European Weightlifting Championships in Batumi,  Georgia, Mr. Iakovos Filippousis, Secretary General of the International Committee of the Mediterranean Games, was awarded the prestigious Gold Star, the highest distinction in the European weightlifting family.

The award was presented by Mr. Astrit Hasani, President of the European Weightlifting Federation, following a unanimous decision by the EWF General Assembly, recognizing Mr. Filippousis’ longstanding and impactful contribution to the development of weightlifting across the Mediterranean region.

This distinguished honor acknowledges not only his dedication to the sport, but also his instrumental role in integrating Olympic weightlifting categories, into the core program of the XX Mediterranean Games Taranto 2026.

In his remarks, Mr. Filippousis expressed his deep gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing that the award reflects the  broader efforts of the ICMG Executive Committee members.

He highlighted the ongoing collective work of his colleagues within the ICMG, as well as the valuable collaboration with all International Federations, and elite athletes, who continue constantly to contribute to raising quality and visibility of the Mediterranean Games.

“This distinction is a testament to the ICMG for our shared strong commitment to promoting sport, excellence, and Olympic values across the Mediterranean region,” he noted.

The recognition further reinforces the strong relationship between the Mediterranean Games movement and the international sporting community, as preparations continue toward a successful and inclusive Taranto 2026.