It was officially announced today that Malta will host the 2027 Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG), in a historic moment for our country and the entire sporting community. This was announced during a ceremony in Malta during which the agreement for this purpose was signed. The ceremony was attended by the President of Commonwealth Sport, Dr Donald Rukare, who was joined by the Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation, Clifton Grima, and the President of Commonwealth Sport Malta, Julian Pace Bonello.
The 8th edition of the Games, Malta 2027, will be held across Malta and Gozo, and will welcome around 1,150 athletes aged between 14 and 18 from 74 Commonwealth countries and territories. The event will include eight sporting disciplines: Swimming and Para-Swimming, Athletics and Para-Athletics, Netball, Squash, Triathlon, Weightlifting, and for the first time in the history of the CYG, Sailing and Water Polo.
In addition to the sporting events, the event also includes a dynamic Cultural and Educational Programme, with an emphasis on sustainability, youth empowerment, and Maltese cultural heritage. This prestigious event will place our country at the sporting centre, while continuing to strengthen tourism in the sector.
Minister Clifton Grima reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting sport as a tool for development. “Malta 2027 is a testament to the growing ambition and capacity of our country in the world of sport. Organising and hosting the Commonwealth Youth Games is not just an honour, it is an investment in our youth, our communities, and our international standing. These Games will inspire a generation, showcase Maltese talent and hospitality, and leave a legacy that goes beyond sport.” Minister Grima also stated that this event in our country will take place at a time when local sport and the participation of local athletes and sportspeople in international events are achieving ever greater success.
Dr Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, said: “We are excited to be delivering the Commonwealth Youth Games to Malta in 2027 and thank Commonwealth Sport Malta and the Government of Malta for their commitment and vision. The athlete-focused proposal, world-class facilities, and Malta’s experience in hosting international events make it an ideal country. The Commonwealth Youth Games are more than a celebration of sport; they are a transformative experience for young athletes. Those competing are the stars of tomorrow and the voices of today – real change that will shape the future of our Movement.”
Julian Pace Bonello, President of Commonwealth Sport Malta, described the Games as a unique opportunity for Malta. “Malta 2027 will be a celebration of unity, youth and excellence. This is a long-term vision that goes beyond a single event. It is about building a legacy of sporting participation, athlete development and international recognition. Our young athletes will have the opportunity to compete in their own country, inspiring an entire generation. We are very pleased to have been entrusted with the responsibility of hosting this prestigious event. We thank Commonwealth Sport for their trust, and the Government of Malta for their unwavering support.”
The Commonwealth Youth Games have a prestigious history that has seen the careers of international stars such as Kirani James (Athletics), Chad le Clos (Swimming), Jessica Ennis (Athletics), and Beth Tweddle (Artistic Gymnastics). Malta now joins this legacy, offering its youth an exceptional platform for their sporting aspirations.
