FORT-DE-FRANCE, Martinique — Martinique will host the 2026 CARIFTA Swimming Championships from April 3 to 8, bringing together more than 500 elite youth athletes from 24 Caribbean territories.
The six-day competition serves as the premier regional qualifier for young swimmers advancing toward international levels. The event marks the second time the Martinique Swimming League (LNM) has organized the championships, a task involving months of logistical preparation to meet international sporting standards.
“CARIFTA is about bringing together our Caribbean brothers and sisters,” said LNM President Alex Badian. “Beyond competition, it is a moment of sharing, respect, and unity.”
The 2026 program includes:
-
Opening Ceremony: April 3 at Stade Georges Gratiant.
-
Pool Events: April 4–7 at the Lamentin Aquatic Center.
-
Artistic Swimming: Dates concurrent with pool events.
-
Open Water Race: April 8 at Anse d’Arlet.
Delegations are scheduled to arrive at Martinique Aimé Césaire Airport on April 2. The host territory will be represented by a 35-swimmer squad.
Olympic swimmer Coralie Balmy will serve as the event’s patron. Her involvement aims to highlight the discipline and rigor required for elite performance. The championships are supported by a regional network of coaches, volunteers, and officials specialized in youth aquatic categories.
Beyond the sporting matches, officials intend to use the event to promote Martinique’s infrastructure and tourism. The competition rotates among Caribbean territories annually to foster regional cooperation and develop swimming standards across the archipelago.