Maltese Aquatic Sports Mourn Passing Of Edgar Izzo

May 6 2025

Maltese aquatic sports woke up to the sad news of the passing of Edgar Izzo, a respected and long-serving figure in the local sporting community, who died at the age of 85.

Edgar Izzo played a significant role in Maltese sports administration, holding several key positions throughout his career.

He served as treasurer of the Aquatic Sports Association of Malta (ASA), and also contributed his time and expertise as club secretary at Sliema Aquatic Club. In addition, he held the roles of treasurer and vice-president at Sliema Wanderers Football Club.

Izzo was known for his meticulous approach to administration and was widely regarded as a man of great integrity and dedication.

His contributions to sport were not only professional but personal, as he left a legacy of excellence, discipline, and commitment that influenced those who worked alongside him.

Many within the sporting community have acknowledged Izzo’s impact and the example he set, both as an administrator and as a person. His values and passion for sports clearly left an impression on those around him.

His influence continues through his son, Karl Izzo, the current ASA president, who has followed in his father’s footsteps with a successful career in sports leadership.

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New Scheme To Pay Fishermen To Support Marine Research

May 6 2025

Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said has announced a new funding scheme aimed at supporting local fishermen in the collection of maritime data.

Speaking at a press conference alongside representatives from the Aquatic Resources Malta (ARM) agency, Bugeja Said revealed that the initiative will offer financial compensation to licensed fishermen with registered vessels who agree to collaborate with researchers during their fishing trips.

This innovative scheme is designed to facilitate real-time data collection at sea by directly involving fishermen in the research process. “This is a concrete step showing how Malta is working toward more responsible and sustainable management of its natural resources,” said Bugeja Said. “Data collection is vital to making informed decisions and developing strong policy for the future of the fisheries sector.”

Fishermen selected based on set criteria will receive approximately €320 per fishing trip under the EMFAF DC-MAP program.

The initiative merges principles of sustainability, evidence-based research, and the blue economy. Bugeja Said emphasised the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the sector through innovation and collaboration.

Applications will be accepted from Monday, 12 May, to Saturday, 17 May 2025, with ARM officials offering assistance from offices in Marsaxlokk, St. Paul’s Bay, and Mġarr, Gozo.

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6 Conscience Volunteers Brought To Malta, Flew Back Home

May 6 2025

The Embassy of Palestine in Malta took to social media to share some updates on the Conscience humanitarian vessel.

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It was revealed that six volunteers aboard the vessel were brought to Malta and flew to their home country on Monday night.

The Freedom Flotilla revealed on social media that the location of the 6 volunteers was not disclosed to the FFC team until they were taken to Malta airport.

Meanwhile, a Maltese surveyor was allowed aboard the vessel to asses the needed repairs.

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Ħamrun Spartans Book Spot In League Final

May 6 2025

Ħamrun Spartans booked their spot in the 360Sports Malta Premier League Championship Final with a dramatic 4-2 penalty shootout win over Floriana on Monday night at the National Stadium.

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In front of thousands of passionate Ħamrun supporters, the match ended goalless after 120 tense minutes of football, with both sides unable to break the deadlock in regular or extra time. Floriana, winners of the Opening Round, and Ħamrun, second in the Closing Round, cancelled each other out in a tactical and physical battle.

But it was the Spartans who kept their cool when it mattered most, confidently converting four penalties while Floriana faltered with two misses. The Red and Blacks’ fans erupted in celebration as their side sealed a place in Saturday’s title decider.

On Sunday, Birkirkara booked their place in the final after a hard-fought 1-0 win over Sliema Wanderers. Brazilian striker Maxuell Maia was the hero, nodding in a last-gasp header from a Shaun Dimech free-kick deep into extra time.

All eyes now turn to Saturday, 10 May, when Ħamrun Spartans and Birkirkara face off at the National Stadium for the ultimate prize – the league title and a spot in European football. It marks the climax of the league’s first edition under its revamped format.

Before that, Floriana and Sliema will meet in the third-place playoff on Friday, 9 May, to determine the final European qualification slot.

With high stakes, roaring fanbases, and silverware on the line, Maltese football fans are in for a blockbuster weekend.

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