Paraguays sporting dreams take shape with Junior Pan Ams and 2031 bid

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FILE PHOTO: XVIII Pan American Games - Lima 2019. The Pan Am Sports flag is raised during the opening ceremony. July 26, 2019/ REUTERS/Sergio Moraes/File Photo

Paraguay has launched an ambitious bid to host the 2031 Pan American Games, using this months Junior Pan Ams as a high-stakes dress rehearsal, Olympic Committee president Camilo Perez said — aiming to emerge as the regions next sporting hub.

With 4,200 athletes from 41 countries competing across 42 disciplines in newly built venues around Asuncion, the South American nation is positioning itself as a serious contender -- offering disciplined budgets and expanding infrastructure.

Well keep working. Its up to the Pan Am Sports presidents to decide if they trust us for future events, Paraguayan Olympic Committee president Camilo Perez told Reuters.

Hearing countries like the U.S. and Canada, which we once saw as unreachable, say theyre happy to bring hundreds of athletes here fills me with pride.

The Junior Games follow Paraguays successful hosting of the 2022 South American Games, and precede a packed schedule of events -- including rounds of the World Rally Championship, the 2026 World Skate Games, and the 2027 Junior World Weightlifting Championships.

It is also expected to host a match in the opening stage of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, marking the tournaments centenary.

Paraguay faces stiff competition from Rio de Janeiro, which hosted the 2007 Pan Ams and the 2016 Summer Olympics, along with neighbouring Niteroi. Rios post-event economic struggles and underused venues remain a cautionary tale for