Barbados has been confirmed as host of the 2028 CARIFTA Games, while Guyana will stage the 2027 edition, following decisive support from the CARICOM Heads of Government to secure the future of the regional competition.
The announcement comes after the two member federations that had expressed interest in hosting the 2027 Games withdrew, just days before the CARICOM Heads of Government neeting held July 5 to 8.
North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) appealed directly to the CARICOM Heads on the urgent need to secure a host and on the broader value of sport to the region’s young people.
“On behalf of the NACAC Athletics Council, officials, and athletes of the NACAC Athletics family, I wish to thank the CARICOM Heads for their swift and positive response in support of the CARIFTA Games,” said Mike Sands, president of NACAC Athletics.
“I especially thank President Ali of Guyana and Prime Minister Mottley of Barbados for agreeing to host CARIFTA 2027 and 2028. This secures the immediate future of what is arguably the world’s premier junior athletics event.”
NACAC Athletics also extended its appreciation to the Government, member federation, Local Organising Committee, and people of Grenada for hosting the 2026 CARIFTA Games on short notice. It was the second time Grenada stepped up as host within a three-year period.
“Grenada’s willingness to host twice in three years speaks to its commitment to youth development, but it also reminds us of the real demands hosting places on our smaller island states,” Sands said.
“Sustaining the CARIFTA Games will take continued partnership between our governments and sporting bodies.”
From July 10 to 12, NACAC Athletics staged its Under-18/Under-23 Championships in Tlaxcala, Mexico, with 512 athletes from 26 member federations competing. Athletes from 20 of the 26 participating federations reached the medal podium and 20 championship records were broken. The Under-23 age range was expanded to give Under-20 athletes an additional opportunity to qualify for the World Athletics Under-20 Championships in Eugene, Oregon, next month. (PR/NM)
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