Within the framework of cybersecurity Professional Capacity Development Program, the Operative-Technical Agency of Georgia, acting in its capacity as the National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT), invites professionals working in Georgia’s cybersecurity sector to participate in the European Cyber CTF Championship organized by the SANS Institute.
The Event will take place from 10 to 12 June 2026 and is expected to bring together hundreds of cybersecurity professionals from 45 countries.
Eligibility Criteria
The Competition is designed for:
• Cybersecurity academic program students and graduates;
• Individuals being at the early stages of the cybersecurity career;
• Cyber Security Operations Center (CSOC) analysts;
• Professionals engaged in Red and Blue Teaming exercises;
• Other individuals seeking to deepen their technical knowledge and strengthen practical competencies.
Participation Format and Timeline
Stage I – National Qualifying Round:
25–29 May 2026
(Duration: 48 hours distributed over a five-day period)
Stage II – Final Round:
10–12 June 2026
Only the top ten participants gaining the highest scores in the national qualifying round will advance to represent Georgia in the European Cyber CTF Championship.
Participants obtaining prize-winning positions will receive the following benefits:
• First Place: One fully funded training course offered by the SANS Institute, including 1 slot of GIAC certification recognized at the national level required to provide certain information and cybersecurity-certified services;
• Second Place: One additional SANS training course free of charge;
• Third Place: 1-year subscription to SANS Skills Quest free of charge.
Please kindly note that the prior attendance at the SANS Institute training programs is not a mandatory prerequisite for participation in the CTF Competition. Applicants are mainly expected to possess the necessary technical competencies, gain sufficient score at the national round and demonstrate the high level commitment to represent Georgia at this high-level international event.
The European Cyber CTF Championship provides participants with an exceptional opportunity to evaluate their capabilities in closely aligned real-world scenarios and to highlight their professional stance amongst other leading cybersecurity experts worldwide.
The Operative-Technical Agency provides support and sponsorship to the Competition at the National Level.