Paraguay interested in hosting 2030 Youth Olympic Games

LAUSANNE, Switzerland -- Paraguay President Santiago Pena met with International Olympic Committee President (IOC) Thomas Bach here on Friday to discuss Paraguay's ambitious bid to host the 2030 Youth Olympic Games (YOG).

Accompanied by Paraguayan Olympic Committee President Camilo Moreira and Minister of Sport Cesar Ramirez, Pena reaffirmed his full support for the bid during his visit to the IOC headquarters.

"We are determined to build on our extensive experience in hosting impactful and sustainable events. Paraguay is proud to be one of the host nations for an opening match of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, and adding the Youth Olympic Games would serve as a powerful catalyst for our national development," Pena said.

During the meeting, Pena reaffirmed Paraguay's strong belief in the power of sport to build stronger and more united communities, as well as the country's determination to contribute to the Olympic Movement, which, "under President Bach's leadership, has strengthened its global social impact as a force for peace and unity."

"We are committed to building a better future for our young people, and hosting the Youth Olympic Games would align with our mission. We want the Games to be more than just a sporting event," he added.

"We aim to create a purposeful festival that integrates sport, cultural exchange, education and Olympic Values, while also serving as a platform to advance the careers of young athletes both within and beyond sport," said Pena.

Paraguay hosted the South American Games in 2022, and will host the second edition of the Junior Pan American Games this August.