Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja attended the flag handover ceremony for Albania’s delegation to the Taranto 2026 Mediterranean Games.
Gonxhja praised the athletes who will represent Albania at the major international sporting event. He said elite athletes remain one of the country’s greatest sporting assets. Therefore, the government has started taking concrete steps to support them.
“Every result comes after years of work, sacrifice, training and discipline,” Gonxhja said. He added that institutions must create the right conditions for athletes to achieve their goals.
The government has also increased financial rewards for top-level athletes.
At the Olympic Games, the reward for a gold medal has increased by 50%. The silver medal reward has risen by around 86%. The bronze medal reward has doubled.
At European Championships, rewards have increased by between 50% and 200%, depending on the final result.
Meanwhile, at the Mediterranean Games in Taranto, the reward for first place has increased by 50%. The reward for second place has doubled.
Gonxhja said these changes show the government’s stronger commitment to elite athletes and their international achievements.
The government has also increased support for coaches. Their reward has risen from 40% to 50% of the athlete’s reward. In addition, the daily food allowance has doubled from 2,500 to 5,000 lekë.
The ministry has also simplified some procedures for athletes. Anti-doping verification now relies on confirmation from the National Anti-Doping Organization of Kosovo (OKAD). This change reduces unnecessary administrative work while maintaining anti-doping standards.
Gonxhja also highlighted a planned draft law on sports sponsorships. The government wants to encourage greater private-sector involvement in sports.
According to the minister, sustainable sports development cannot rely only on public funding. Instead, the state, businesses and the sports community should work together.
Gonxhja also pointed to the Mediterranean Games “Prishtina 2030”. Albania will participate through Durrës, which will host sailing competitions.
He said preparations should begin now. The country must improve infrastructure and organization while also creating a lasting legacy for Albanian sport.
The event will also strengthen cooperation between Albania and Kosovo. It will provide an opportunity to jointly host an international sporting event to high standards.
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