New Delhi, July 31 (NationPress) Malta has been chosen to host the eighth edition of the Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG) in 2027, welcoming over 1,000 athletes aged 14 to 18 from 74 nations and territories who will compete across eight sports, as announced by the event's governing body on Thursday.

"This award exemplifies Commonwealth Sport’s dedication to introducing the Youth Games in new locations, particularly small and island nations. Malta’s unique dual-island structure boasts existing world-class facilities, with venues organized into four primary clusters across the islands of Malta and Gozo. Hotels will be transformed into two Athlete Villages, one on each island," Commonwealth Sport stated in a press release.

The Sport Programme will include eight sports, introducing Sailing and Water Polo for the first time at a CYG, alongside Athletics and Para Athletics, Netball, Squash, Swimming and Para Swimming, Triathlon, and Weightlifting. This distinctive program has been crafted to maximize local and Commonwealth youth engagement while utilizing state-of-the-art venues.

Malta 2027 will feature the largest Para sport programme at a CYG, with Para Swimming being included for the first time, building on the groundbreaking addition of Para Athletics at the previous CYG in Trinidad and Tobago in 2023.

Dr. Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, expressed, “We are excited to bring the Commonwealth Youth Games to Malta in 2027 and appreciate the commitment and vision from Commonwealth Sport Malta and the Government of Malta. Malta’s athlete-centric proposal, top-tier facilities, and proven track record in hosting international competitions make it a perfect host.

“The Commonwealth Youth Games are not just a thrilling showcase of sport; they represent a transformative journey for young athletes. Those who compete are the future stars and current voices, changemakers who will influence the direction of our Movement. We eagerly anticipate being on the stunning island of Malta in 2027.”

Julian Pace Bonello, President of Commonwealth Sport Malta, referred to the Games as a distinctive opportunity for Malta. “Malta 2027 will symbolize unity, youth, and excellence. This vision extends beyond a single event; it aims to create a legacy in sports participation, athlete growth, and international recognition. Our young athletes will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete on home turf, inspiring an entire generation,” he stated.

Malta 2027 will build on the success of Trinbago 2023, a vibrant and unforgettable celebration of sport and youth that captured the imagination of athletes across the Commonwealth. Inspiring and empowering young individuals is fundamental to ‘Commonwealth United’, the Commonwealth Sport Movement’s Strategic Plan 2023-2034, and active discussions are already in progress regarding future editions.