Malta’s Under-16 men’s water polo team has achieved its best-ever result at this level after finishing an impressive 11th at the World Aquatics Men’s U16 Water Polo Championships 2026 in Zagreb, Croatia.

The young Maltese squad competed alongside 36 nations during the seven-day tournament, producing an outstanding campaign that saw them claim five victories against China, Mexico, South Africa, New Zealand and Turkey.

Their only setbacks came against hosts Croatia, who have progressed to the tournament final, and Hungary - two of the competition’s strongest sides.

The historic performance represents Malta’s highest-ever placing at a World Aquatics U16 championship and highlights the growing potential of the country’s young water polo talent.

Several Maltese players also made their mark individually, with four members of the squad receiving Player of the Match honours during the tournament. Luigi Gatt and Luca Schiavone each earned the accolade twice, while Jake Simpson and Benji Lewis were also recognised for their performances.

The squad is expected to return to Malta today after completing a campaign that will go down as a landmark moment for Maltese youth water polo.

With a historic world ranking, five victories and several standout individual performances under their belt, Team Malta’s young players have certainly given the country plenty to celebrate.

Congratulations to Team Malta!