Gibraltar (GIB)

The application of the Gibraltarian National Olympic Committee for International Olympic Committee (IOC) recognition was on the agenda for discussion at the San Francisco IOC session in 1960, and on numerous subsequent occasions. Each time Gibraltar’s application was denied, it became increasingly apparent that Spain was making territorial claims on the British Colony, and was actively opposing Gibraltar’s recognition. Although the Olympic Charter prohibits any political interference, the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a directive on 5 September 1985 banning Gibraltarians from competing in championships held on Spanish soil, even though Gibraltar was a member of several International Federations (IFs). After 40 years, Gibraltar remains excluded from the Olympic Movement and has not competed at the Olympics. As of 2022, Gibraltar is a member of at least 18 IFs.