Santo Domingo readies 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games

The Dominican Republic is undertaking extensive preparations for the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games scheduled for 24 July–8 August 2026 in Santo Domingo. The government announced cash incentives for Dominican medalists – up to RD 300,000 for individual gold and RD 3.2 million for team gold – and similar awards for coaches and federations. Major infrastructure projects include city‑wide street beautification, new lighting on major avenues, and the construction of the Villa Centroamericana y del Caribe, a modern residential complex with 3 600 rooms and extensive facilities for athletes and officials. Security measures are being bolstered through a special traffic‑control plan around the Juan Pablo Duarte Olympic Centre, deployment of COMIPOL personnel, and a risk‑management workshop by the national emergency operations centre. The event has drawn participation from across the region, with delegations such as Cuba’s flag‑bearing team and Venezuelan athletes receiving equipment shipments. Religious blessings were performed for the Dominican delegation, and the Games are expected to host over 6 000 athletes from 37 nations.