Cuba fields 506 athletes for Santo Domingo 2026 Games

Cuba will send a delegation of 506 athletes to the XXV Central American and Caribbean Games in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, from 24 July to 8 August 2026. The size surpasses the 494 competitors sent to the 2023 edition in San Salvador. Officials said the increase was achieved despite severe economic and logistical constraints linked to the U.S. blockade, which has limited air transport, food supplies, energy, and equipment for athletes. The National Institute of Sports, Education and Recreation (INDER) employed innovative training methods and partnerships to prepare competitors across 37 sports and 43 disciplines, aiming for a regional podium finish and qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles and 2032 Paris Olympic cycles.

The Dominican government is completing infrastructure for the games, with the Ministry of Housing, Habitat and Buildings (MIVHED) inaugurating a fully renovated handball pavilion in the Parque del Este. The venue now seats 2,240 spectators, includes a VIP area, and meets international standards. Additional works have brought most sports facilities to over 95% completion. In Villa Hermosa, La Romana, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation began construction of a multi‑use arena, a RD$32 million project intended to ensure every municipality has a modern sports venue, reinforcing the country’s preparation for the games.

Overall, the event will feature athletes from across the Caribbean and Central America, with Cuba targeting strong performances despite the challenging preparatory environment.