Larnaca is making a bid to host the 2031 Games of the Small States of Europe (GSSE), with a proposal advocating for a single-city approach to the multi-sport event.
The initiative comes after Cyprus announced in May its intention to host the Games for the third time in its history, following 1989 and 2009.
Phivos Doukanaris, head coach of the Larnaca Nautical Club and a former GSSE medallist in swimming, believes Larnaca is the most suitable city. He has prepared a written proposal outlining the reasons why the city should undertake the organisation of the Games. Doukanaris has presented his plan to local stakeholders, including the Larnaca Municipality, Members of Parliament, and sports officials, securing their support.
Andreas Vyras, the Mayor of Larnaca, stated that the municipality is establishing a special committee to formally present the proposal to the Cyprus Olympic Committee (COC).
Doukanaris explained his vision, emphasising the importance of the GSSE for Cyprus. “The GSSE are games I always liked because, as a country, it is not easy for us to achieve results in pan-European and global competitions. In these games, we participate as a team and can achieve significant results for Cyprus,” he said. He added that his proposal was inspired by his personal experience as an athlete, coach, and professional in sports, having won medals for Cyprus at the GSSE.
Doukanaris, originally from Famagusta and now living in Larnaca, highlighted the city’s suitability. “Larnaca is the appropriate city to offer the best possible hosting experience for the GSSE. It is not just ready; it is ideal,” he commented, noting that the last time Cyprus hosted the Games, events were spread across multiple cities, which is uncommon for such events in other countries.
He argued that Larnaca has all the necessary sports infrastructure and is a compact city with short distances between venues. “All key sports facilities and accommodation infrastructure are within close proximity, which reduces travel and costs, while also enhancing the overall experience for all participants,” Doukanaris stated. He also pointed out the city’s international airport, which facilitates travel for delegations, spectators, and visitors.
Larnaca’s existing facilities, such as new tennis courts, AEK Arena, Kition Athletic Centre, and the Olympic Shooting Range, can meet the demands of an Olympic-level event with necessary upgrades. Doukanaris also cited the city’s experience in major events, cultural depth, and its bid for European Capital of Culture 2030 as further qualifications.
The organisational plan is based on a “2 Zones-1 City” model. The first zone includes Foinikoudes for beach volleyball, 3×3 basketball, open-water swimming, and sailing at Larnaca Marina. This zone also incorporates the renovated municipal multi-purpose venue in Ayios Lazaros for indoor sports like karate and Taekwondo. The second zone is the New GSZ area, which houses track and field facilities, AEK Arena, the swimming pool, and the Kition Indoor Arena. Nearby schools could provide supportive services. Complementary venues include the Olympic Shooting Range and cycling routes. Doukanaris envisions the opening ceremony at AEK Arena and the closing ceremony at Foinikoudes.
The Games of the Small States of Europe, held every two years, include participants from Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Montenegro, San Marino, and Cyprus. The 2031 event in Cyprus is expected to attract over 3,000 individuals, including athletes, delegations, and spectators. Doukanaris has developed a transportation plan for the event, based on a circular public transport system. He noted that most arrivals would be via Larnaca Airport, with buses transporting people to hotels in Foinikoudes or Dhekelia. During the Games, buses would circulate from Dhekelia to Foinikoudes, the Multi-purpose venue, and the New GSZ, before returning to Dhekelia.
Doukanaris noted that hosting the Games in Larnaca would bring multiple benefits, such as job creation, increased tourism, and the promotion of Cyprus on a European level. “Larnaca will prove to be a cultural and sports city, capable of organising large events,” he said, adding that the event would provide sports infrastructure for future generations, offer a life experience for young participants, and support volunteerism. “It is a good opportunity to show those who come to Larnaca our hospitality, our culture, and our ability to offer them the best possible experience.”
Doukanaris described the GSSE as potentially the largest sporting event Cyprus organises. “That is why the choice of one city is very important, and Larnaca is the right one,” he concluded, noting that his idea has garnered significant support from various stakeholders beyond the mayor, including Members of Parliament and relevant sports bodies. These meetings are ongoing to secure maximum support for the proposal.
