The name “San Marino” can no longer be freely used by sports clubs and associations without prior authorisation. Decree-Law No. 149 of 5 October 2026 introduces specific regulations governing the use of the Republic’s name in sport, entrusting the National Olympic Committee of San Marino (CONS) with the task of granting approval.
“With Decree-Law No. 149 of 5 October 2026, the Republic introduces an organic set of rules for the use of the name ‘San Marino’ in sporting activities, filling a regulatory gap and defining, for the first time, clear, uniform and transparent procedures,” reads a statement from the Secretariat of State for Sport.
The principle underpinning the measure is that the name “San Marino”, when used in sport, creates an immediate link between the club or association and the Republic. For this reason, entities that already use the name — or intend to do so in future — will need to obtain prior authorisation from CONS.
The provision also covers expressions that could establish a direct connection with the Republic and will apply universally, regardless of the sporting federation under which the entity operates.
“The aim is not to interfere with the autonomy of the Federations or with the activities of sports associations and clubs, but to ensure that use of the Republic’s name is based on defined criteria and that the conditions for its use remain valid over time,” the Secretariat specifies.
The decree thus grants CONS a new, specific area of competence, distinct from the functions the Committee already carries out within San Marino’s sporting system.
To obtain authorisation, applicants will need to submit a formal request accompanied by the required documentation. The process must be concluded within ten working days of receipt of the application, barring the need for additional information.
The measure also sets out the possibility of revoking authorisation. This may occur if, after the authorisation has been granted, “the activity or conduct of the association or sports club proves genuinely capable of damaging the prestige, honour, image or interests of the Republic of San Marino.”
Before any final decision, the parties involved will be guaranteed the right to be heard, allowing the entity concerned to submit its own observations. In the event of revocation, the club or association must stop using the name “San Marino” or any other expression establishing a direct link with the Republic.
“Sport is an extraordinary vehicle for promotion and collective identity,” said the Secretary of State for Sport, Rossano Fabbri. “Using the Republic’s name creates an immediate connection with San Marino, and for precisely this reason we believe it is right to have clear rules, equal for everyone, and transparent procedures. With this decree we are closing a gap in our legal framework and giving CONS a specific tool to protect the name, prestige and image of the Republic over time.”
The decree also affects those who already use the name “San Marino” today. For these entities, a transitional period of 90 days from the decree’s entry into force is envisaged, within which an application for authorisation must be submitted.
Failure to comply with these obligations will result in administrative financial penalties, to be imposed by the Economic Activities Office (UO Ufficio Attività Economiche), without prejudice to any further action provided for under the law to protect the Republic’s name and image.
“Decree-Law No. 149/2026 therefore introduces an organic system to protect the name ‘San Marino’ in sport, one capable of combining the safeguarding of the Republic’s identity and image with legal certainty, uniform treatment and the guarantees provided for all parties involved,” the Secretariat of State concludes.
