Canarias Athletics Invitational Eyes Mondo Duplantis for 2027 as Event Gains Global Stature

Athletics in the Canary Islands is reaching a new level of maturity. Organizers of the Canarias Athletics Invitational, which holds its third edition this Wednesday at the CIAT in Tíncer, have revealed they are in advanced talks to bring world-leading pole vaulter Mondo Duplantis to the 2027 event. Securing the Swedish star would be a historic milestone for sports in the islands, putting the event on par with the world’s biggest competitions.

Promoter Alberto Armas confirmed the move, highlighting the event’s rapid rise within the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver circuit. This year’s lineup features several top-tier athletes, most notably Venezuelan triple jumper Yulimar Rojas, who is making her return to high-level competition following a long-term injury. Other notable participants include discus thrower Matthew Denny, Olympic javelin champion Sara Kolak, and a strong Spanish contingent led by Mariano García and Jesús David Delgado.

The event’s success has caught the attention of international sports bodies. While organizers have considered moving up to the "Gold" category—the elite tier of the global circuit—they have held off for now. The transition would require moving the event to August, a time the management believes is less ideal for attracting top athletes following the conclusion of major summer championships.

Beyond the competition, the Canarias Athletics Invitational aims to make a lasting social impact. Supported by the Government of the Canary Islands, the Cabildo of Tenerife, and the Santa Cruz City Council, the project seeks to inspire local youth and foster a stronger sports culture. By leveraging the high-quality facilities at the CIAT and the islands' hospitality, organizers hope to make Tenerife a regular destination for elite athletes, establishing the archipelago as a premier location on the international athletics map.