From April 3 to 8, Martinique will host the CARIFTA 2026 AQUATICS CHAMPIONSHIPS, a key event on the Caribbean sporting calendar.
Over six days, the island will take center stage, bringing together the Caribbean’s top young swimmers. More than 500 athletes from 24 territories, along with officials, coaches and supporters, are expected to take part in this flagship competition.
Year after year, CARIFTA has established itself as a key step for swimmers progressing toward the international level. Organized within the framework of Caribbean sports cooperation, CARIFTA plays a structuring role across aquatics disciplines.
In swimming, it represents the highest level of competition for youth categories, with a program including: – pool events (April 4–7, Lamentin Aquatic Center) – artistic swimming competitions – an open water race (April 8, Anse d’Arlet)
A Major Caribbean event with international reach
The CARIFTA Championships have become a cornerstone of Caribbean sport, bringing together the region’s best young talent in a competitive environment recognized beyond the Caribbean.
A key highlight of the regional calendar, the competition contributes to the development of aquatics across the Caribbean and marks an important step in the journey of many athletes toward elite performance. Held in a different territory each year, the event reflects the region’s spirit of cooperation.
In 2026, Martinique takes over as host.
Martinique, a Caribbean destination at the heart of the event Beyond the competition, CARIFTA 2026 offers a unique opportunity to showcase Martinique as a vibrant Caribbean destination. Combining sport, culture and natural beauty, the island provides an inspiring setting for athletes, delegations and visitors alike.
A significant challenge for the Martinique Swimming League (Ligue de Natation de Martinique – LNM) Hosting CARIFTA represents a significant challenge for the Martinique Swimming League (LNM), which is organizing the competition for the second time. This commitment reflects: – the league’s organizational maturity – the strong mobilization of its teams – the trust placed in it by Caribbean governing bodies
Months of preparation have been required to meet the demands of an event of this scale, from logistical to sporting and human aspects. Through this new edition, Martinique confirms its position as a host for major Caribbean sporting events and its ability to meet international standards.
The arrival of delegations on April 2 at Martinique Aimé Césaire Airport will mark the operational start of the event, followed by the official opening ceremony on April 3 at Stade Georges Gratiant.
A collective mobilization across the region
CARIFTA 2026 extends beyond the competition itself. It is driven by a collective dynamic across the territory and, more broadly, the Caribbean region. Around the athletes, a full ecosystem is engaged: – committed parents – coaches and club leaders – volunteers from across the Caribbean – passionate supporters This human dimension makes CARIFTA a collective experience rooted in solidarity and shared values.