Luis Mejía Oviedo Calls on the Dominican People to Compete for the “Gold Medal of Hospitality” at the Opening of Santo Domingo 2026

SANTO DOMINGO – Centro Caribe Sports President Luis Mejía Oviedo delivered an inspiring address during the Opening Ceremony of the 25th Central American and Caribbean Games Santo Domingo 2026, highlighting the historic significance of the centennial edition and calling on the Dominican people to become the region’s finest hosts.

Mejía Oviedo stated that the night of July 24, 2026, marks the beginning of the second century of the Central American and Caribbean Games, describing the event as a platform for integration, solidarity and friendship among nations since its inception in Mexico in 1926.

During his remarks, he recalled the three occasions on which the Dominican Republic has hosted the regional Games and paid tribute to historic figures of Dominican sport, including Juan Ulises García Saleta (Wiche), the driving force behind Santo Domingo 1974; Roque Napoleón Muñoz, for Santiago 1986; and José Joaquín Puello Herrera, for the 2003 Pan American Games. He also acknowledged the support of the successive governments whose commitment made those sporting events possible.

The Centro Caribe Sports President expressed special gratitude to President Luis Abinader for supporting the organization of Santo Domingo 2026 amid the challenges posed by the pandemic and international conflicts, circumstances that complicated the selection of a host city for the Games. He also recognized the work of the Organizing Committee, led by José P. Monegro, the Dominican Olympic Committee, volunteers, the media, the Armed Forces, the National District City Hall, and the Ministry of Sports.

In one of the most emotional moments of his speech, Mejía Oviedo paid tribute to the athletes and coaches, highlighting the sacrifice, discipline and dedication behind every competition. He also asked the audience for a round of applause in memory of the Venezuelan athletes who lost their lives following the recent earthquake in their country, expressing the solidarity of the regional sports movement.

Addressing the Dominican people, he said that throughout the Games there would be two competitions: the sporting contest, in which athletes will compete for medals, and another involving the entire nation.

“Let us compete for the gold medal of hospitality, for the gold medal of respect, solidarity, organization and joy,”

he said, inviting Dominicans to welcome the participating delegations with the warmth and spirit for which the country is known.