Sailing to make Commonwealth Youth Games debut at Malta 2027
by World Sailing 1 Aug 2025 14:51 BST
29 October - 4 November 2027
Sailing to make Commonwealth Youth Games debut at Malta 2027 © World Sailing
Sailing will be part of the sport programme for the eighth edition of the Commonwealth Youth Games to be held in Malta, marking the first time that sailing has been included in the event.
The sailing competition is due to be held in Mellieha Bay on the island's northern coast from 29 October to 4 November 2027 as one of eight sports to be featured at the Games.
David Graham, World Sailing CEO, welcomed the decision, saying, "This is excellent news for the sport of sailing and for young sailors around the world. Being part of the eighth edition of the Commonwealth Youth Games is a tremendous honour and speaks to the growing appeal of the sport. Many of the participating nations have a rich maritime history, and this offers another incredible opportunity to grow the sport and develop national sailing programmes for the benefit of future generations of young athletes. We look forward to delivering a successful sailing competition and showing just how exciting sailing is on the world stage."
Dr Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, said: "We are thrilled to bring the Commonwealth Youth Games to Malta in 2027 and thank Commonwealth Sport Malta and the Government of Malta for their commitment and vision. Malta's athlete-first proposal, world-class facilities, and proven experience in hosting international events make it an ideal host.
"The Commonwealth Youth Games are more than a captivating celebration of sport; they are a transformative experience for young athletes. Those that compete are the stars of tomorrow and the voices of today, changemakers who will shape the future of our Movement. We look forward to being on the beautiful island of Malta in 2027."
Malta 2027 will welcome approximately 1,150 athletes aged 14 to 18 from Commonwealth Sport's 74 nations and territories. The sport programme will feature eight sports, with sailing and water polo making their event debut, alongside athletics and para athletics, netball, squash, swimming and para swimming, triathlon, and weightlifting.