Paraguay is making significant strides in its bid to host the 2030 Youth Olympic Games, a project poised to become a milestone in the country’s sports development. President Santiago Peña, alongside national sports leaders such as Camilo Pérez López Moreira, president of the Paraguayan Olympic Committee (COP), and Larissa Shaerer, involved in organizing the Asu 2025 Junior Pan American Games, is spearheading efforts to position the country as a key destination for youth sports.

On January 31, Peña and Pérez will meet in Lausanne, Switzerland, with Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). This meeting will be critical in strengthening Paraguay’s proposal against other bids. Currently, four countries are competing to host this prestigious event, which brings together young athletes from 211 nations. Pérez has stated that these Games represent “the highest level a country like ours can aspire to host.”

SPORTING COMMITMENT AND INTERNATIONAL PROJECTION

Asunción, Paraguay’s capital, has solidified its reputation as a host of international sporting events. In recent years, it hosted the 2022 South American Games and the 2023 Latin American Special Olympics. Moreover, it will host the 2025 Junior Pan American Games, further cementing its position as a regional sports hub.

Political support has also played a key role. President Peña signed a letter of guarantee addressed to Panam Sports in support of Paraguay’s bid for the 2031 Pan American Games, with the host city set to be announced in August 2025. These initiatives not only highlight Paraguay’s commitment to sports but also position the country on the global stage as a significant player in hosting major competitions.