Guyana to Host 2027 CARIFTA Games
Guyana has stepped in to host the 2027 CARIFTA Games after St Kitts withdrew its bid just a week earlier.
The announcement was made by the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC), which also confirmed that Barbados will host the 2028 edition of the Caribbean’s premier junior athletics championships.
Guyana’s decision was announced just one week after St Kitts withdrew from hosting the 2027 CARIFTA Games, with the St Kitts-Nevis Athletics Association and Olympic Committee stating that it was “not the most ideal time” for the twin-island nation.
NACAC Athletics said Guyana’s decision to host, along with Barbados’ commitment for 2028, followed swift intervention and support from CARICOM Heads of Government.
“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,” NACAC Athletics President Mike Sands said during a media briefing.
“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 said it will work closely with authorities in Guyana and Barbados to begin early preparations for the 2027 and 2028 CARIFTA Games, while continuing talks with CARICOM leaders on creating a more sustainable model for athletics and major youth sporting events across the Caribbean.
