PANAMA CITY, Panama – Just one month remains until the opening of the IV South American Youth Games in Panama City, Panama, an event poised to be the most significant sporting spectacle in the nation’s history. With over 2,000 athletes from 15 countries preparing to compete, anticipation is building for the games, scheduled to begin April 12, 2026.
The upcoming games represent a major milestone for Panama, showcasing its growing capacity to host large-scale international events. Damaris Young, President of the Panamanian Olympic Committee, emphasized the extensive preparations underway to ensure a successful and memorable experience for all participants and visitors.
Argentina, Aruba, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Curazao, Ecuador, Guyana, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, Suriname, and Venezuela will all be represented at the games, bringing together the region’s top young athletes aged 14 to 17. Panama is ready to welcome athletes and the thousands of tourists expected to attend throughout April.
“Panama is preparing for the IV South American Youth Games Panama 2026 through a process of strategic planning, inter-institutional coordination, and a commitment to the highest international standards of sport,” Young stated. “This effort is jointly led by the Panamanian Olympic Committee and the National Government, through Pandeportes, under a governance model that integrates various state institutions and private sector allies to guarantee a solid, efficient organization aligned with the best practices of the Olympic Movement.”
Preparations have focused on strengthening sports infrastructure, training personnel, developing volunteer programs, and implementing technological systems for event management. Organizers are also prioritizing a lasting legacy, aiming for the games to have a positive impact beyond the sporting arena.
A total of 21 sports venues will be utilized, with the Ciudad Deportiva – named in honor of Panamanian track and field legend Irving Saladino – serving as the main hub. The Rommel Fernández Gutiérrez Stadium will host the opening ceremony, even as the Roberto Durán Arena will be the site for badminton and futsal competitions. The Emilio Royo Stadium will debut Flag Football as a medal sport at these games.
In a departure from previous editions, Panama 2026 will feature a South American Village, providing accommodation for up to 2,000 athletes. This village will serve not only as lodging but also as a space for recreation and cultural exchange. The chess competition will also be held within the village complex.
Athletes will compete across 24 sports: Athletics, Chess, Baseball, Boxing, Badminton, Basketball, Cycling, Fencing, Flag Football, Football, Futsal, Gymnastics, Golf, Judo, Karate, Weightlifting, Wrestling, Swimming, Surfing, Taekwondo, Tennis, Table Tennis, Archery, and Triathlon.
“A Different Level” of Competition
The official slogan of Panama 2026, “A Otro Nivel” (“To Another Level”), encapsulates the ambition of the games. Organizers state the slogan represents growth, overcoming challenges, and Panama’s increasing prominence on the international sporting stage. Just as the Panama Canal elevated the country’s connectivity and development, these games symbolize a step forward for young athletes toward excellence and maturity.
The official mascot, “Anton,” a Panamanian Golden Frog, embodies youth, biodiversity, and the unity of South America. Organizers hope Anton will inspire and motivate all athletes participating in the games.
“To the athletes and National Olympic Committees of South America, we say that Panama will receive you with open arms,” Young said. “Panama 2026 will be a celebration of young talent, the friendship between our nations, and the values that unite us as an Olympic Movement.”
“You can expect games organized with passion, hospitality, and deep respect for sport. We want every athlete who comes to our country to have an unforgettable experience, as we say in Panama 2026, ‘A Otro Nivel,’ compete under excellent conditions, and feel proud to be part of an event that drives the future of sport in our region. Panama is ready to welcome them and to write a latest page in the history of South American sport,” Young concluded.
The games are expected to draw significant international attention to Panama, boosting tourism and showcasing the country’s capabilities as a world-class sporting destination. The event also provides a valuable opportunity to promote the values of sportsmanship, fair play, and cultural understanding among young athletes from across the continent.
With final preparations underway, Panama is poised to deliver a memorable and impactful South American Youth Games in April. The event promises to be a celebration of athletic achievement, cultural exchange, and the spirit of competition.
What’s Next: The opening ceremony is scheduled for April 12, 2026, at the Rommel Fernández Gutiérrez Stadium. Further details regarding the competition schedule and ticket information can be found on the official games website: https://www.jsjpanama2026.com/
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