Martinique to Host 39th CARIFTA Aquatics Championships in 2026

The Caribbean’s top young swimmers will descend on Martinique from April 3 to 8, 2026, as the island hosts the 39th CARIFTA Aquatics Championships, organizers confirmed during a press conference at the Centre Aquatique Pierre Samot.

Twenty-four nations are expected to compete in swimming, artistic swimming, and open water events, marking a major return for Martinique, which last hosted the championships in 2016.

The island secured the 2026 bid during the 2024 Caribbean Aquatics Association Congress in The Bahamas, defeating Saint Lucia by a wide margin. Officials say the vote reflected confidence in Martinique’s proven track record and its modern aquatic facilities, including a ten-lane Olympic pool, 800-seat grandstand and dedicated warm-up pool.

Swimming competition will run April 5 to 8, featuring morning heats and afternoon finals. Artistic swimming events begin April 6, while the five-kilometer open water race is scheduled for April 8 in Anses d’Arlets.

Athletes will compete in three age divisions: 11–12, 13–14 and 15–17. Participants qualify through national selections and must meet strict time standards, ensuring a highly competitive field.

Martinique will field a 61-member delegation: 36 swimmers in pool events, 12 in open water, five of whom will double in pool races, and 18 in artistic swimming.

Medals for the 2026 championships have been crafted from Martinique woods, pearwood for gold, mao bleu for silver and mao ghani for bronze. The eco-conscious initiative, spearheaded by former elite swimmer Coralie Balmy, ensures each podium finisher leaves with a handcrafted symbol of the host island.

The event is expected to bring between 1,500 and 1,800 visitors, including athletes, coaches and families, providing a boost to hotels, restaurants and transportation services. Approximately 150 volunteers and more than two dozen regional officials will support daily operations.

An opening ceremony at the Georges Gratiant Stadium on April 3 will be free to the public and will feature cultural performances highlighting Martinique’s heritage.