Under Camilo Pérez’s leadership as president of the Paraguayan Olympic Committee, Paraguay has emerged as a new sporting hub in the Americas, capped by Asunción’s selection to host the 2031 Pan American Games. The victory over the Rio–Niterói bid at Panam Sports’ Extraordinary General Assembly in Santiago, Chile, marks a milestone for Paraguayan sport. “I am very happy… I dedicate this victory to all the Paraguayan people. Sometimes it’s hard to back David—we tend to play it safe with Goliath,” Pérez said after the vote.
Asunción’s win crowns a long-term strategy to put Paraguay on the map of major events. The capital prevailed 28–24 out of 52 votes, securing the country’s first-ever Pan American Games.
Pérez’s roadmap draws on recent experience, notably hosting the XII South American Games Asunción 2022 under ODESUR, which he also chairs. That operational know-how and legacy strengthened the Pan American bid.
Standing in the Olympic movement
How much did Pérez’s profile tip the scales? A member of the IOC since 2018, vice president of Panam Sports, and president of ODESUR, he brings a network that fosters alliances and knowledge sharing. From that vantage point, his international standing helped open doors and build support for Asunción 2031.
During his tenure, the POC has professionalized its operations and international outreach, improving regional coordination and learning from host-city processes. After missing out on 2027—ultimately awarded to Lima—Paraguay used that experience to return with a stronger case for 2031.
Impact and legacy for Paraguay
Hosting the 2031 Pan American Games will boost infrastructure, tourism, and the sports economy, while acting as a catalyst for athletes and federations. Continental visibility should accelerate high-performance programs and broaden the grassroots base—consistent with POC goals.
The Asunción 2031 project reinforces a national narrative: Paraguay as a reliable host with the capacity to deliver. In Pérez’s words, “We are going to work hard… and we will not let you down,” setting the tone for the road ahead.
