by Nisha Paul
- Grenada hosted 2016 and 2024 CARIFTA Games
- Bascombe: Chance to demonstrate Grenada’s capacity to host a world-class event
- GAA confirmed submission of expression of interest for 2026 games
Grenadians are expressing mixed reactions following the Grenada Athletic Association’s (GAA) official bid to host the 2026 CARIFTA Games, after Guyana withdrew as the original host nation.
While some citizens have praised the move as a bold initiative that could boost national pride and stimulate economic activity, others are urging caution, citing concerns about the financial burden and calling for greater investment in sports infrastructure before committing to another major regional event.
The GAA confirmed its submission of an expression of interest just one day after the conclusion of the 52nd CARIFTA Games in Trinidad and Tobago, where Grenada’s 37-member track and field team delivered an impressive performance, capturing 13 medals (2 gold, 6 silver, and 5 bronze), and finishing 4th on the medal table.
“The association’s submission of the expression of interest is evidence of our continued commitment to the development of regional athletics and Grenada’s readiness to contribute to the legacy of the CARIFTA Games,” the GAA stated in a press release. If successful, the games would be held at the Kirani James Athletic Stadium, which last hosted the event from 30 March to 1 April 2024.
Public reaction has been swift and impassioned. Supporters of the bid argue it is a smart use of Grenada’s existing infrastructure and a way to sustain the momentum of recent athletic successes. Social media has been abuzz, with many praising the visionary leadership of former Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell for investing in the construction of a national stadium. “Today, when other Caribbean islands refuse to host the CARIFTA Games, we can raise our hand because we have a wonderful facility,” commented user “SmallAxe” on Facebook.
However, not everyone shares the enthusiasm. In a recent Facebook post, former diplomat Akima Paul Lambert publicly urged decision-makers to approach the bid with fiscal prudence. She highlighted concerns over the more than EC$10 million reportedly spent on the last CARIFTA Games hosted in Grenada nearly a decade ago, and suggested that funds would be better allocated to long-term sports infrastructure and athlete development. “There is a lot to be done in terms of sports infrastructure,” she noted, pointing to the need for basic training equipment and upgraded school facilities. “Supporting sport is not just about standing at the finish line waving a Grenadian flag, it’s about serious, sustained, long-term commitment.”
Veteran sports journalist Michael Bascombe has defended the bid, pointing to recent upgrades to local sports venues and financial support from international bodies for projects like a new aquatic centre. He emphasised that the process is rigorous and transparent. “The CARIFTA Games are not simply awarded to a country without due diligence. Whether it’s Grenada, the Bahamas, or Jamaica, the process begins with a formal expression of interest, followed by a comprehensive evaluation and approval by NACAC,” Bascombe wrote in a recent social media post. “As we look ahead to 4–6 April, 2026, I am excited to see Grenada’s best track and field athletes and officials showcased on home soil. It will be a proud moment — a chance to celebrate athletic excellence and demonstrate Grenada’s capacity to host a world-class event.”
North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletics Association (NACAC) President Mike Sands confirmed that a 30-day review window has been opened. If Grenada satisfies all the hosting criteria, the rights could be awarded.
Meanwhile, Minister of Sports Delma Thomas, who lauded the performance of Grenada’s athletes at the just concluded CARIFTA event, has indicated the government’s interest in supporting the bid but noted that a full commitment awaits a financial impact report from the GAA.
As the country awaits the final decision, the national debate continues. Should Grenada seize the opportunity to shine on the regional stage once again, or should the country focus its resources on building a stronger, more sustainable future for its athletes?
Editor’s correction: Grenada hosted 2016 and 2024 CARIFTA Games
What is noticed here in Grenada is that people who say that they love so-called sports are always advocating for more and more so-called sport without us having anything to show for it. Even when persons in Grenada say they attain high accomplishments in sports, taxpayers money has to be spent to give them land, money and other free stuff.
We have not been getting any financial returns from the investment in so-called sports so we should focus on encouraging people to participate in life-long physical activities rather than parading around the world with a flag and trying to hosting events that we cannot afford.
Our country is too poor and vulnerable for us to be always looking feel-good moments to escape reality.
Grenada hosted the CARIFTA Games in 2000, 2016 and 2024. The 2016 and 2024 editions were held at the renamed Kirani James Athletic Stadium.
We have more important things to do with tax payers dollars, such buying medicine and supplies for our hospitals, than spending it on a useless event.
Our people don’t even have sidewalks to do everyday walking much less exercising while we are attempting to host an event we cannot afford.
We need to do a serious reality check and get our priorities straight.
My apologies, I should have soon more respect.