20/04/2026
💪🫶
Now that the dust has settled…
As we take everything down and reflect on the last two weeks, we can confidently say this has been an incredible achievement for the Gibraltar Pool Association.
This journey began just five months ago when the opportunity arose to host the Gibraltar Nations Cup. We accepted immediately and got to work. Despite the short timeframe to organise an event of this scale, we always believed our President Jonathan Collado and team were more than capable of delivering it at the highest standard.
And what an event it turned out to be.
The response was immense, with record-breaking numbers of players from nations across the world. The feedback we’ve received has been overwhelming — exceeding all expectations and confirming the success of what has been achieved.
We have truly put Gibraltar on the map in the world of Blackball pool, raising the bar and setting a new benchmark for the future of the sport.
We would like to thank all the players who attended. The sportsmanship was exceptional, the atmosphere electric, and the level of pool simply outstanding.
A special mention goes to our incredible volunteers and bar staff — your dedication and support were invaluable, and you delivered an amazing job throughout.
Massive thanks to our behind the scenes crew. Nuria Saccone, Jestin Benyunes & Kieran Richardson. What a team. Could not have a better Team!!
We also extend our sincere thanks to all those who made this event possible:
• Gibraltar Sports & Leisure AuthorityGSLA for managing the venue and taking care of the entire Blackball community in such a professional manner
• OSG for security
• Topdogs Gibraltar for keeping everyone fuelled throughout
• Gibmedia for delivering top-quality streaming across all feature tables
• Fresh Pro AVL for lighting, sound, visuals, staging, rigging, logistics, and table setup
• KAM for carpeting and tables
• Onboard Sportswear for an outstanding merchandise clothing line
• 8 Ball Direct for the Halo lights, I-Beams, and Smart Racks
A special thank you to On Cue World Michaela, Ross Mcinnes, Preston, and Mathew Inglis for their work on the tables, technical service, and the fantastic shop presence throughout the competition.
We also extend our gratitude to all our sponsors — your continued support, both online and throughout the event, has been invaluable.
Betfred
Xapo Bank
Gib Oil
Gibraltar International Bank
Mars Bar
8 Ball Direct
Lewis Stagnetto
Visit Gibraltar
Thank you to the Minister for Sport, Leslie Bruzon, and the Minister for Tourism, Christian Santos, for your support.
And finally, a huge thank you to Sean Rumbado, Chairman of the EBA, and the entire Executive Committee for trusting us and giving us the platform to showcase what we are truly capable of.
A final special mention goes to Gillian Rolston, Dirk Whiteside, Donna Evans, Kate Lewis, Derek Maley, Rich Rhodes and Rick Lloyd. What this group delivers is no easy task — they are the backbone of the tournament, running one of the tightest schedules ever seen. Hats off to you all.
This is more than an event — this is a statement. And we’re only just getting started.
For now, it’s goodbye… and we’ll see you all again in 2027.