On Saturday, Asunción hosted the Closing Ceremony of the 2025 Junior Pan American Games, an event that recognized the efforts of athletes, volunteers, and citizens after more than two weeks of competition. Organized by Panam Sports and the Paraguayan Olympic Committee -COP-, the Games brought together the continent’s next generation of athletes and reinforced Paraguay’s capital as a reference venue in the region.

From August 8 to 23, a total of 4,072 athletes from 41 countries competed across 28 sports. More than 11,000 participants were accredited, including 650 media representatives, underlining the scale and logistical reach of the event.

Pathway to Lima 2027 and gender equality milestones

The Junior Pan American Games Asunción 2025 provided direct qualification spots for the Pan American Games Lima 2027, consolidating their role in the continental sports calendar. Female participation reached significant levels, a point highlighted by Panam Sports as part of its strategic objectives on gender equality.

The Paraguayan capital demonstrated operational capability across infrastructure, transport, and services, supported by a simplified visa system that facilitated the arrival of international delegations.

More than 4,000 staff and providers, together with 3,295 volunteers, supported the operation. Earlier this year, the Government of Paraguay enacted legislation establishing a Permanent Organizing Committee for major sporting events, ensuring continuity in management and international projection.

Social impact initiatives included 80 community activations and the ASU Fans Program, which engaged over 16,000 students and reinforced the educational dimension of sport.

Paraguay highlights its organizational role

The President of the Republic of Paraguay, Santiago Peña, stated: “Paraguay is proud to have welcomed the continent’s youth with open arms. These Games reflect not only our organizational excellence and national hospitality, but also the firm support of the Government in transforming the country into an international sports hub.”

The President of the Paraguayan Olympic Committee -COP-, Camilo Pérez López Moreira, added: “These Games have been a celebration of youth and sport, and demonstrated Paraguay’s ability to deliver with excellence. Our athletes, volunteers, and citizens embraced this challenge and proved that Asunción is ready to contribute to Pan American sport and the Olympic Movement at the highest level.”