Maltese Olympic Committee announces formation of new Athletes’ Commission

The Maltese Olympic Committee (MOC) announced the formation of its Athletes’ Commission, which will serve for the next four-year term.

The MOC Athletes’ Commission serves as the primary bridge between Malta’s active sporting community and the MOC leadership, representing athletes’ voices, safeguarding their rights, and providing structured feedback on matters of welfare, competition, and selection policy.

The Commission for the period 2026–2030 was established following an official call for nominations across the Maltese sporting sector. Candidates were assessed against eligibility criteria set in accordance with IOC guidelines.

The new Commission brings together six athletes representing a diverse cross-section of Maltese sport, namely Matthew Abela (badminton); Eleanor Bezzina (shooting); Elliana Buhagiar (golf); Aidan Buttigieg (cycling); Sana Grillo (athletics); Daniel Tanti Farrugia (handball).

Eleanor Bezzina and Matthew Abela both bring continuity to the group, having served on the previous commission.

Bezzina has been elected as Chair of the new commission, with the position of Vice Chair being given to Matthew Abela.

Commenting on the formation of the new Commission, Chair Eleanor Bezzina said: “The Athletes’ Commission plays a vital role in ensuring that the voices of Maltese athletes are heard at the highest level of sporting governance. What energises me most about this new setup is the breadth of sport represented around the table.

“That diversity of experience means we can reflect the realities faced by athletes across very different disciplines and environments, and advocate for them in a more informed and meaningful way. I look forward to working alongside my fellow Commission members to make a tangible difference for athletes in Malta over the coming four years.”

In accordance with the MOC Statute, Bezzina will retain her seat on the Executive Board as a voting member – a position reserved for the athletes’ representative elected by the Athletes’ Commission and confirmed by the General Assembly.

The Commission also holds two votes within the General Assembly.

Welcoming the new Commission, MOC President Julian Pace Bonello remarked: “The formation of a new Athletes’ Commission is always a significant moment for the MOC. Athletes are at the heart of everything we do, and having a structured, representative body that channels their experiences and perspectives directly to our leadership is invaluable.

“The calibre of those who have stepped forward for this Commission is encouraging, and we are confident that their collective insight will strengthen the way we serve Maltese sport.

“The MOC looks forward to working closely with the new Commission and to continued collaboration with Malta’s athlete community over the coming four years.”