Joe Bajada, Secretary General of the Maltese Cycling Federation, has been honoured with the prestigious UEC Merit Award by the Union Européenne de Cyclisme (UEC) in recognition of his long-standing commitment and service to cycling in Malta and across Europe.

The award was presented at the conclusion of the 38th UEC Congress, held last Sunday in Avignon, France. The presentation took place in the historic Conclave Hall of the Palace of the Popes, in the presence of delegates from 46 nations. The award was personally presented by UEC President Enrico Della Casa, alongside David Lappartient, President of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).

Joe Bajada received the award in recognition of his decades-long dedication to the sport of cycling and for his historic role representing Malta in European and international cycling institutions. Notably, Bajada has served in various positions within both the UCI and the UEC, marking a first in the history of Maltese cycling.

In addition to Bajada, the UEC also presented Merit Awards to Catherine Gastou (France) and Jolanda Polkamp (Netherlands). Meanwhile, Agata Lang Lelangue (Poland) and Henrik Jess Jenson (Denmark) were honoured with the UEC Gold Licence.

Commenting on the recognition, Joe Bajada described the occasion as a deeply meaningful and memorable experience. “It was truly wonderful to receive this honour in such a historic place where faith, service, and sport came together. I accept this award with the utmost humility, particularly in light of the voluntary work and sacrifices involved in serving the cycling community,” he said.

Bajada expressed his gratitude to his colleagues within the Maltese Cycling Federation for their continued support. He also congratulated the UEC and the French Cycling Federation for organizing the Congress in such a professional and exemplary manner.

“As a Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, being honoured in a place with such deep Christian history as the Palace of the Popes holds a special meaning for me. This recognition reflects more than 50 years of voluntary service, commitment, and personal sacrifice in sport, including my roles as a football referee, journalist, and sports administrator,” Bajada added.

He dedicated the award to his family for their unwavering support throughout his sporting journey, particularly to his wife, Salvina, their daughters, Vivienne and Lourdes, their husbands, Charlton and Paul, and his three grandchildren, Destinie, Ylenia, and Yana.

UEC President Enrico Della Casa praised Bajada’s contribution to the sport. “It is an honour to present this award to Joe Bajada. His dedication and commitment to cycling in Malta and across Europe are exemplary. Through his work within the UEC and the UCI, he has become a true example for all of us,” he said.

Della Casa also expressed his appreciation for Bajada’s contributions to the development of cycling and thanked his family for their continued support throughout his years of service to sport.