Athletes qualify for 2026 National Popular Games

Athletes from Oaxaca and Acapulco have qualified for the 2026 National Popular Games (JNP) following successful state-level competitions. The national stage of the event is scheduled to take place in Veracruz from November 5 to 10, 2026.

In Oaxaca, 42 martial arts athletes secured their spots, consisting of 34 combat specialists and eight form specialists. The state competition saw an approximately 25 percent increase in participation compared to the previous year, with roughly 160 athletes competing. The qualifying process also included official judge certification to prepare the delegation for the national competition.

In Acapulco, Guerrero, 42 representatives also qualified for the 2026 games. This group includes boxers José Miguel Clavel Olea, Getsemani Pastrana Olivera, and Rosa Lizbeth Severo de la Cruz, as well as 20 female football players from two age categories. Additionally, 19 martial arts athletes from the region earned their advancement to the national phase.