LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS) – Former Floriana FC head coach, Italian national Gianluca Atzori has been awarded compensation of over €90,000 by FIFA following a lengthy contractual dispute with the Maltese Premier League club.

The FIFA Players’ Status Chamber, and later the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), sided with the Italian coach in a decision that concluded a two-year battle over unpaid wages and contract breaches. Floriana FC must now pay Atzori a total of €87,765 plus interest, after the governing bodies ruled that he had been forced out of his role due to financial and professional mismanagement by the club.

Atzori, a former Sampdoria and Reggina manager, took charge of Floriana in 2021. In his first season, he guided the Maltese club to a second-place finish in the Premier League and clinched the FA Trophy. However, the club struggled the following year, finishing seventh and failing to qualify for European competition.

Despite the club initially announcing in May 2023 that Atzori had voluntarily stepped down with a year remaining on his contract, the Italian coach later revealed in an interview with The Times of Malta that he had been forced to resign due to unpaid salaries and a breakdown in working conditions. Atzori claimed he had not been paid for three months and that additional bonuses, including those related to European qualification, had also gone unpaid. “When I was left with no other option but to step down, my only request was to receive unpaid wages covering my work at the club,” Atzori told The Times of Malta.

These verdicts simply confirm the right and fair way of doing things.” FIFA initially ruled on December 14, 2023, that Floriana FC owed Atzori €25,765 in outstanding wages plus interest, along with €62,000 in compensation for breach of contract. Floriana appealed the ruling to CAS, but their challenge was dismissed on February 28, 2025. Following the club’s continued non-compliance, FIFA imposed sanctions in March 2025, issuing an international transfer ban on Floriana.

The ban, which prevents the club from registering new players internationally, will remain in place for up to three registration periods or until the full amount is paid. FIFA has also requested the Malta FA to enforce a similar ban on a national level. Floriana FC has not issued a statement in response to the ruling. Despite the bitter legal dispute, Atzori chose to reflect on his time in Malta with positivity.

“Floriana FC represents a positive experience in my career of which I have fond memories” he said. “I believe we had started an ambitious football project which could have gone very far. But it was not meant to be. That is football, that is life”. He also thanked the club’s supporters for their ongoing encouragement, urging them to continue supporting the team “in their unique passionate way”.

– Photo IPA Agency –

(ITALPRESS)

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – As tens of thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square yesterday for the funeral of Pope Francis, Archbishop Charles Scicluna of Malta called on Catholics around the world to begin praying for the next Pope and to pledge obedience to him, saying that only through faith can the Church’s mission continue.

“Jesus tells us: ‘Choose who you want,’ but the flock is mine. I paid for it with my blood,” Scicluna said after the ceremony. “We must remember that Jesus Christ remains the true head of the Church.” Scicluna spoke of the emotional atmosphere, calling the moment “deeply moving” and consistent with the late Pope’s personal wishes, who had called for sober and intimate celebrations.

“Even before the world leaders arrived, the square was shrouded in silence. This is Francis’ legacy: reflection, not spectacle.” As the Church mourns an era-defining pontiff and prepares for a new phase, Scicluna added: “All we can do is pray. Francis always asked us to pray for him and now he is praying for us. May we find peace, protect our planet and walk together as one people.”

Attention now turns to the future, with the imminent papal conclave on the horizon. The process to choose St. Peter’s successor is set to begin between May 6 and 12, depending on the completion of preparations. Of the 252 members of the College of Cardinals, only 133 are electors, having not yet turned 80 and being present in Rome.

To be elected Pope, a qualified majority of two-thirds is required, at least 89 votes. One of the names that is being quietly circulated in Vatican circles is that of Cardinal Mario Grech, former bishop of Gozo, known for his theological depth and leadership in the synodal process, qualities that have attracted the attention of many.

In 2005, he was appointed Bishop of Gozo, a post he held until 2019, when Pope Francis chose him as Pro-Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops, a position he assumed fully in September 2020. This role has given him a particular advantage: in the course of his work, many cardinals have had the opportunity to interact with his office. Francis has attached great importance to the Synod in his project of reforming the Church towards greater inclusiveness and participation.

Initially considered a traditionalist for his stance against divorce, in vitro fertilization and the morning-after pill in Maltese debates, Grech later called on the Church to welcome gay and divorced couples. More recently he has also advocated for greater participation of women in church life.

His more progressive positions have not been free from criticism: In 2022, Cardinal Gerhard Müller, who at 77 will be among the electors, accused Grech of leading a process aimed at “undermining the Catholic faith and the Church” through the Synod, which he called an internal “coup d’état.”

Observers are divided on Grech’s chances of becoming pope: for some he is among the top five papabili, for others he remains on the fringes of predictions. In recent times, conclaves have been held quickly: Pope Francis was elected in 2013 after just five ballots in less than two days. However, if a consensus is not reached after three days, a pause for reflection is foreseen, after which voting resumes.

– Photo Archdiocese of Malta –

(ITALPRESS/MNA)

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta was among 170 countries represented at the state funeral of Pope Francis, held at St Peter’s Square in the Vatican on Saturday.

A sizeable Maltese delegation — including President Myriam Spiteri Debono, Prime Minister Robert Abela, Opposition Leader Bernard Grech, and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola — joined an estimated 400,000 mourners and world leaders to honour the late pontiff.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, passed away on Monday at the age of 88 after leading the Catholic Church for 12 transformative years. Known as “the People’s Pope,” he was celebrated for his efforts to make the Church more compassionate, inclusive, and globally engaged.

Reflecting on the solemn occasion, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola described Pope Francis as “more than a spiritual shepherd” and “a global voice for compassion, for humanity, for peace, and for those too often forgotten.”

In an interview with Times of Malta, Metsola recounted her last private audience with the pontiff, where they discussed global peace, the role of women in politics, and his fond memories of visiting Malta — especially his crossing to Gozo.

“He used to look at young people and tell them to trust, and be tolerant to one another,” she said. “Even if it is difficult, even if it is sometimes unpopular, I would rather stand for that than for populist quick wins.”

Prime Minister Robert Abela spoke of the powerful emotion that filled St Peter’s Square, describing the homily as especially moving. The message that “we need to build bridges, not walls” drew spontaneous applause from the crowd.

“We need to strengthen peace because war destroys our humanity,” Abela said, adding that the late Pope’s message is especially relevant in today’s sensitive global climate. “His legacy will live on, particularly for those in positions like mine who are entrusted with running a country”.

Opposition Leader Bernard Grech echoed this sentiment, calling the funeral a historic and emotional moment. “It created an opportunity for world leaders to come together,” he said. Grech praised Pope Francis’s courage in addressing political issues and his commitment to the marginalised.

“He was a Catholic pope, but he was also an international figure who influenced politics around the globe,” he said. Malta’s Ambassador to the Vatican, Frank Zammit, also described the funeral as a moment of profound global unity.

“The world met in St Peter’s and thanked the Pope who did so much for the most vulnerable in society,” he said. Zammit highlighted Pope Francis’s humanitarian efforts, including the establishment of a soup kitchen and a clinic for undocumented individuals. He noted Malta’s direct contributions to these efforts, from donating medical equipment to sending Maltese medical students to volunteer at the clinic this summer. “By doing this they will begin to sow the seed of mercy within them,” Zammit said. As the world bid farewell to Pope Francis, Maltese leaders stood united in recognising a pontiff who redefined papal leadership and left an indelible mark on both the Church and global society.

-Photo IPA Agency-
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

ROME (ITALPRESS) – The funeral of Pope Francis, “the people’s Pope,” was held today in Rome, drawing hundreds of thousands of people to the streets to honour a legacy of compassion and global unity.

Kamel Ghribi, President of GKSD, joined numerous world leaders and prominent figures—including American, European, and African heads of state—to reflect on the essential efforts toward peace and the Pope’s profound moral and practical contributions.

Ghribi, who had the pleasure of personally knowing the Pope, being honoured by his friendship, and sharing thoughts on human fraternity, praised the visionary signing of the Abu Dhabi Declaration in 2019—a bold step toward interreligious dialogue. “He was a man of peace who turned faith into a bridge, not a barrier. His call for unity still echoes even after his passing, as adversaries stand side by side, united in grief and reverence,” Ghribi remarked.

During the funeral ceremony, the President of GKSD exchanged views with several world leaders, including the Prime Minister of Kenya, the President of Congo, the Prime Minister of Qatar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tunisia, the President of Bangladesh, the President of Kosovo, the President of Lebanon, the Prime Minister of Greece, and high-ranking UN dignitaries such as Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

“I hope that peace in Ukraine, following the meeting at the Vatican between Trump and Zelensky, will be Pope Francis’s first miracle from above,” said Kamel Ghribi after the funeral ceremony.

-Photo GKSD-
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta today joins the international community in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died earlier this week at the age of 88. As a mark of deep respect, the Government of Malta has declared today, the day of the Popès funeral, a national day of mourning.

All government-organised functions and public activities have been cancelled, and flags across government buildings and offices are being flown at half-mast. The nation is being encouraged to unite in solemn tribute to a spiritual leader remembered worldwide for his unwavering advocacy for social justice, peace, and the dignity of all people.
The President of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono, is among the international dignitaries attending the funeral ceremony in Vatican City.

She is leading a bipartisan five-member delegation that includes her husband, Anthony Spiteri Debono; Prime Minister Robert Abela and his wife, Lydia Abela; and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech. The composition of the delegation reflects Maltàs strong political unity and the country’s long-standing ties with the Holy See. Also present the Maltese Ambassador to the Holy See, Frank Zammit.

Archbishop Charles Scicluna is representing the Maltese Episcopal Conference and is among the many senior Church leaders concelebrating the solemn Eucharistic celebration in honour of the late Pope. In a statement, the Church in Malta expressed its profound sorrow and solidarity with the Universal Church, offering thanks for Pope Francis’ life of humble service and commitment to the People of God.

Maltese pilgrims from all walks of life-young and old, priests and laypeople-travelled to Rome this week to pay their final respects to His Holiness Pope Francis.
Gathering in St. Peter’s Square, they are among thousands from around the world in solemn prayer and to attend the funeral Mass, held in honour of the late pontiff.

Many of the pilgrims spoke of Pope Francis’ compassion, humility, and enduring message of peace and inclusion, values that left a lasting impression on the people of Malta during his historic visit to the islands in 2022. Their presence in Rome reflects not only personal devotion, but a shared national tribute to a spiritual leader who inspired millions around the globe.

Pope Francis, who visited Malta in 2022 on an apostolic journey, left a deep impression on the island nation, which remains predominantly Catholic and closely connected to the Vatican. Today, Malta bows its head in prayer and reflection, paying its final respects to a pontiff who inspired millions with his compassion, humility, and unwavering pursuit of peace.

– Foto IPA Agency –

(ITALPRESS)

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The long-awaited trial of four men accused of involvement in the assassination of Maltese investigative journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia has officially begun, nearly eight years after her murder sent shockwaves through Malta and the international community. A jury was empanelled on Wednesday to hear the case against brothers Robert and Adrian Agius — known as the ‘Ta’ Maksar’ brothers — along with Jamie Vella and George Degiorgio.

The men face a total of seven serious charges, including the voluntary homicide of Caruana Galizia in 2017 and lawyer Carmel Chircop in a separate 2015 case. Several of the accused are also charged with unlawful possession of explosives and firearms. Caruana Galizia, 53, was killed on October 17, 2017, when a remotely detonated car bomb exploded under her vehicle shortly after she left her home in Bidnija. The attack bore the hallmarks of a professional hit and marked a turning point in Malta’s political and judicial landscape.

Widely known for her fearless reporting on corruption, money laundering, and organized crime — much of it tied to powerful political and business figures — Caruana Galizia had been investigating high-profile scandals, including the notorious 17 Black company secret company based in Dubai tied to businessman Yorgen Fenech, when she was murdered. The assassination drew immediate global condemnation, with press freedom organizations, the European Parliament, and human rights advocates demanding justice.

The public outrage eventually led to a public inquiry, which concluded in 2021 that the Maltese state had created a “culture of impunity” that enabled her killing through systemic regulatory failures and political negligence. George Degiorgio, one of the men now on trial, previously admitted his role in the assassination during a 2022 interview. Investigators believe Robert and Adrian Agius supplied the explosive device used in the bombing, while Jamie Vella is accused of helping organize the logistics behind the operation.

The alleged mastermind, Maltese businessman Yorgen Fenech, was arrested in 2019 and is still awaiting trial. The trial is expected to shed further light on the extensive criminal network suspected of carrying out contract killings in Malta, with Caruana Galizia’s murder viewed as the most high-profile example of a broader pattern of violence and corruption.

The same group has also been linked to the murder of Carmel Chircop, a lawyer who was shot dead in 2015 in what initially appeared to be an unrelated case. However, recent testimony from Vincent Muscat — a key witness and one of the original three men charged in Caruana Galizia’s murder — connected the Agius brothers and Vella to both killings. Muscat reached a plea deal in 2021, receiving a reduced sentence in exchange for his cooperation.

Prosecutors allege that both murders were orchestrated by the same organized crime network, acting to silence perceived threats — whether journalistic or financial. For many, the opening of this trial represents a critical step forward in holding that network to account and securing justice for Daphne Caruana Galizia. The proceedings are expected to continue over several weeks, with public and media scrutiny remaining intense as Malta confronts the deep-seated issues exposed by one woman’s pursuit of the truth.

– photo Net News –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

TRIPOLI (LIBYA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Libya’s Prime Minister Abdul Hamid Dabaiba convened a high-level meeting to address the country’s maritime border security, calling it “a sovereign matter that directly impacts Libya’s national security,” according to an official government statement.

The urgent discussions brought together senior officials including State Minister for Communication and Political Affairs Walid Al-Lafi, Transportation Minister Mohammed Al-Shahoubi, Chairman of the Land and Maritime Borders Committee at the Foreign Ministry Mohammed Al-Harari, National Oil Corporation (NOC) Chairman Masoud Suleiman, and Cabinet Secretary-General Rashid Bougafa.

“This issue cannot be treated as merely technical – it requires a coordinated national political approach,” Prime Minister Dabaiba emphasized during the meeting. The talks focused on the challenges hindering Libya’s ongoing maritime border demarcation efforts. Officials highlighted the need for greater institutional coordination that integrates technical expertise with solid legal frameworks, forming a united national stance ahead of potential regional disputes.

– photo IPA Agency –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The President of Malta, Myriam Spiteri Debono, will travel to the Vatican to attend the funeral of Pope Francis, the Office of the President confirmed in an official statement. The solemn ceremony is scheduled to take place on Saturday morning and is expected to draw dignitaries and religious leaders from around the globe. President Spiteri Debono will lead a five-member Maltese delegation invited by the Holy See. Accompanying her will be her husband, Anthony Spiteri Debono; Prime Minister Robert Abela and his wife, Lydia Abela; and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech.

The composition of the delegation reflects a bipartisan representation of the nation’s political leadership and the importance Malta places on its historic ties with the Vatican. “The invitation extended to Malta is a sign of the close and longstanding relationship between our country and the Holy See,” the President’s Office noted. “President Spiteri Debono is honored to represent the Maltese people on this solemn occasion.”

– photo DOI –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

RIYADH (SAUDI ARABIA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – A delegation from the Italpress news agency, led by founder and editor-in-chief Gaspare Borsellino, visited the headquarters of the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) today in the Saudi capital, Riyadh. The visit was part of the cooperation agreement signed between the two news agencies in December 2024 and aimed to launch the executive phase of the agreement, proposing projects to be developed in coordination between the two parties.

The Italpress delegation was welcomed by Hassan Al-Asmari, Vice President for the Information Sector at SPA; Saeed Al-Shihri, Director of the Legal Department; Ali Al-Qahtani, General Director of Multimedia Content; Mahdi Al Rashid, Director of the Digital Media Department; and Haya Al-Hussaini, Director of Foreign Languages at the agency.

During the meeting, which concluded with a tour of the building housing the various editorial offices of the Saudi news organization, the two parties discussed several upcoming projects involving Saudi Arabia, such as Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup. On the occasion, Director Borsellino presented a video in English showcasing Italpress’ activities and outlining future projects related to Saudi Arabia and the cooperation between the two agencies.

The intention to strengthen the exchange of news and mutual collaboration was also reaffirmed through the development of new multimedia projects and the exchange of journalists between Italy and Saudi Arabia.

The cooperation agreement signed in 2024 between Italpress and the Saudi Press Agency aims to enhance news cooperation, develop media collaboration activities, and promote mutual benefits regarding news products and content sharing. The agreement also includes support in training and professional development, as well as the organization of joint events both in Italy and Saudi Arabia.

– photo Saudi Press Agency –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews

LA VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Two Moroccan nationals have been identified as central figures in the fatal robbery of a jewellery shop in Zurrieq that led to the death of 67-year-old shop owner Joseph Carabott. Mohamed Anas Boualam, 37, has admitted to the murder, which occurred during a violent hold-up on August 25, 2023. Carabott sustained serious injuries during the assault and succumbed to a chest infection directly linked to those injuries on April 5 of this year. As proceedings continued before Magistrate Donatella Frendo Dimech, Boualam pleaded guilty. Although given time to reconsider, he confirmed his admission of guilt. Sentencing is scheduled for June 3.

The second defendant, Zaouhair Hadoumi, also a Moroccan national, has pleaded not guilty to the charge of involuntary murder. The court has ruled that sufficient evidence exists for Hadoumi to stand trial, placing him under indictment.
Forensic experts confirmed that Carabott’s death was directly tied to the injuries sustained during the robbery.

A third accomplice, Donna Borg Sciberras, has already been sentenced to 28 years in prison in connection with the same crime. The case has raised concerns over violent crime and the role of foreign nationals in serious offenses, sparking debate over security and immigration in Malta.

– foto: ufficio stampa Polizia di Malta –

(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews