Central American Games: a century of sports integration in the region

Santo Domingo. The Central American and Caribbean Games represent the oldest regional multi-sport competition in the Western Hemisphere recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Their history, which began more than a century ago, reflects the evolution of sport in the region and the strengthening of ties between the nations of Central America and the Caribbean.

The origin of the Games dates back to July 4, 1924, when sports leaders from several countries signed the founding act of the competition in Paris. The initiative arose after the Olympic Games of that year, promoted by the Mexican Olympic Society with the purpose of raising the competitive level of the region’s athletes and fostering sports exchange among the participating nations.

The first edition was held in Mexico City in 1926, with the participation of just three countries and 269 athletes. Since then, the event has experienced sustained growth, currently bringing together 37 countries and territories, with thousands of athletes competing in dozens of disciplines.

History of the Central American Games

Throughout their history, the Central American and Caribbean Games have established themselves as a platform for the region’s sports development and a stage where numerous figures have emerged who later shone in continental competitions, world championships, and Olympic Games. Furthermore, they have strengthened cooperation and cultural exchange among the participating countries.

Although the calendar has traditionally been maintained on a four-year cycle, the competition faced historical challenges. The edition scheduled for 1942 was suspended due to World War II, one of the few moments in which the continuity of the tournament was interrupted.

Leading Central American Games

In the sporting arena, Mexico and Cuba have established themselves as the most successful delegations in the history of the Central American and Caribbean Games, leading the medal table in most editions. Mexico, furthermore, holds the record for having participated in every celebration of the event since its inception.

Dominican legacy

The Dominican Republic holds a prominent place in the history of the Games. The country hosted for the first time in 1930, when Santo Domingo organized the second edition of the event. Subsequently, it hosted them again in 1974, becoming the first city to host the competition for a second time. Twelve years later, Santiago de los Caballeros hosted the 1986 edition, expanding the Dominican sporting legacy.

With the celebration of the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games Santo Domingo 2026, the Dominican capital once again becomes the epicenter of regional sports, welcoming thousands of athletes who will compete in 40 sports at various venues across the country. This will be the fourth time the Dominican Republic hosts the event and the third for Santo Domingo, reaffirming its prominence within the Central American and Caribbean sports movement.