Luxembourg Olympic Committee President Michel Knepper has denounced Malta for “buying athletes” ahead of the Small States Games, calling the practice a betrayal of the event’s spirit.

Michel Knepper, president of Luxembourg's Olympic Committee (COSL), has expressed concern over Malta's recruitment practices ahead of the Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE), accusing the country of "buying athletes" by fast-tracking citizenships. He made the remarks ahead of his first GSSE as COSL president, as the competition kicks off in Andorra.

Knepper confirmed that preparations in Andorra appear solid. "Our head of mission has a good feeling. The accommodations are functional, and the facilities are ready", he said.

Luxembourg's record delegation, around 200 people strong, face a gruelling 16-hour journey as they travel to Andorra by bus for logistical and financial reasons.

Though medals are always welcome, Knepper stressed that his priority is developing young talent. "I want them to gain experience and close in if not surpass their personal bests,” he said.

The absence of European Games or Olympics this year offers a rare chance for athletes to shine, according to Knepper. This is a peak opportunity for most of our athletes, especially for team sports that rarely make it to major international events, he added.

However, he voiced disappointment over changes in the competitive spirit. "It's regrettable to see a nation [like Malta] buying athletes by handing out ID cards just for these Games... They did it two years ago, and apparently, it's still happening", he said.

Despite this, he praised the overall camaraderie among participating nations, calling it a "big family".

The 2025 Luxembourg team has a majority of female athletes, a shift Knepper welcomes. It shows real commitment from women and mirrors the growing gender balance in our national federations, he noted.

With Monaco hosting in 2027 and Luxembourg set to take over from Cyprus in 2029, Knepper acknowledged that financial capabilities are increasingly shaping the hosting calendar. "Hosting 1,000 people requires a budget of €5–6 million", he noted, arguing that it would be impossible without sponsors and state support.

The Andorra delegation is Luxembourg's largest yet, with a €500,000 budget backing 165 athletes and further delegates.

Looking ahead to 2029, Knepper envisions a national celebration. "We want the week to touch the whole nation. I still remember the images and atmosphere in 2013."

He further underlined that these Games should promote sport, education, health, and family. "That’s the idea behind our integrated 2.0 concept", he said.