Keith Joseph, President of the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC), has expressed deep concern over the scheduling conflict between two major multi-sport events set for 2026—the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games and the Commonwealth Games.
The clash presents a serious dilemma for Caribbean countries, most of whose National Olympic Committees (NOCs) also function as Commonwealth Games Associations (CGAs). “Caribbean NOCs and CGAs find themselves in a bit of a quandary,” Joseph said, noting the unique and difficult position regional bodies face in trying to commit to two high-profile competitions taking place at the same time.
The CAC Games, scheduled to be held in the Dominican Republic, carry special significance in 2026 as they mark the 100th anniversary of the Games—the oldest regional multi-sport event in the world after the Olympics. Joseph pointed out that CCS President Luisin Mejias de Oviedo, a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has emphasized the importance of celebrating the Games’ centenary in fitting fashion, and was instrumental in bringing the Games to his home country for the occasion.
Meanwhile, the Commonwealth Games have faced their own challenges. With no city initially stepping up to host, the Commonwealth Sport body accepted a bid from Victoria, Australia—only for that city to later withdraw. Glasgow eventually stepped in, but the dates they selected now directly overlap with the centenary edition of the CAC Games.
According to Joseph, while discussions between Centro Caribe Sports (CCS) and Commonwealth Sport are ongoing, a resolution is still pending. “Once Glasgow’s dates were announced, Caribbean NOCs and CGAs realised the predicament that confronted them. Commonwealth Sport immediately saw the conundrum into which it was also thrown.”
He warned that even if both organizations reach a consensus, the final decision may come down to athletes and those who manage their careers. “Athletes are not always the masters of their own destinies,” Joseph said. “Agents, coaches, and professional obligations often determine which competitions they attend. In many cases, these ‘handlers’ wield more influence than national federations or Olympic committees.”
Joseph said CANOC remains committed to working with all stakeholders to find a solution but emphasized that athletes should be central to that process. “If, as we so often say, we are in this for the athlete, then it would appear appropriate to fully engage them in the decision-making process,” he said.
While the situation remains unresolved, Joseph said there is still time for dialogue and understanding to prevail—but also cautioned that steps must be taken to avoid similar scheduling conflicts in the future.