News – Water Polo Australia

Water polo is set to make its Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG) debut, with Malta today confirmed as the host nation for the 2027 edition.

Malta 2027 will welcome approximately 1150 athletes aged 14-18 from Commonwealth Sport’s 74 nations and territories. 

The Sport Programme will feature eight sports, with Water Polo and Sailing making their debut at a CYG, alongside Athletics and Para Athletics, Netball, Squash, Swimming and Para Swimming, Triathlon, and Weightlifting. 

The distinctive programme was designed to maximise local and Commonwealth youth appeal and utilise existing state-of-the-art venues. Malta 2027 will have the largest Para sport programme at a CYG, with Para Swimming being added to the CYG programme for the first time, building on the landmark inclusion of Para Athletics at the last CYG in Trinidad and Tobago in 2023.

Tim Welsford, Water Polo Australia CEO said: “We’re thrilled at water polo’s inclusion in the 2027 Commonwealth Youth Games.

“For our 16&U and 18&U athletes, this provides additional international competition opportunities, which are crucial in the development of our next generation of Ord Minnett Aussie Sharks and Aussie Stingers.

“The Commonwealth Youth Games aligns perfectly to the World Aquatics calendar, with international events now slated for 2026, 2027 and 2028 for our 16&U and 18&U athletes,” he said.

Craig Phillips AM, Commonwealth Games Australia CEO said: “The Commonwealth Youth Games play a vital role in developing the next generation of athletes by giving them a unique opportunity to experience international competition in a multi-sport environment,” Phillips said.

“For many, it’s their first taste of representing Australia on the global stage, an experience that can shape their future in sport and beyond.

“The Commonwealth Youth Games are an important part of our athlete development pathway, and we look forward to seeing Malta 2027 inspire and elevate our emerging talent.”

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.”

Mr Julian Pace Bonello, President of Commonwealth Sport Malta, described the Games as a unique opportunity for Malta: “Malta 2027 will be a celebration of unity, youth, and excellence. This is a long-term vision that extends beyond a single event. It is about building a legacy in sports participation, athlete development, and international recognition. Our young athletes will have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to compete on home soil, inspiring an entire generation.”