The International Committee for the Mediterranean Games (ICMG) has confirmed the dates of the 17th Mediterranean Games, which will be held in Volos, Greece, in 2013. The opening ceremony will take place on 21 June 2013, with the competition running until 30 June 2013, the day of the closing ceremony.

Through their Secretary General, Isidoros Kouvelos, the International Committee for the Mediterranean Games felt it important to inform FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter of the official competition dates at the earliest possible opportunity in order that world football’s governing body keep the period free of any other international tournaments. To this end, the countries involved in the Games will have a greater chance of fielding their best possible players at the event.

The Games bring together 23 countries, 20 of which border the Mediterranean Sea. Serbia, Andorra and San Marino are also considered to be Mediterranean nations, despite their lack of coastline. This multi-sport event, which includes football, has taken place every four years since 1951, and almost always follows the year in which the Summer Olympic Games are held. In 2013, Greece  is due to play host for the second time in Volos and Larissa, having already organised the 1991 Games in Athens.