DILI, 17 July 2025 (TATOLI) – The Portuguese delegation has arrived in Dili to take part in the 12th edition of the CPLP Sports Games, which are set to officially kick off on Saturday, July 19, 2025.
Their flight landed this morning at Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport, where the team received a warm welcome from the organizing committee and several Timorese citizens who gathered to greet the delegation.
The Portuguese delegation is made up of 105 members, including athletes, coaches, referees, officials, and medical personnel. They are set to compete in nine sports: athletics, 3×3 basketball, football, karate, taekwondo, tennis, beach volleyball, and chess.
Upon arrival, tennis coach Gonçalo Filipe Simões expressed his excitement about competing in Timor-Leste.
“This is a very important sporting and cultural event. For me, it’s a new and unique experience, as I’ve never had the chance to visit Timor-Leste before,” he said. “We’re very excited to explore the country, compete, and share meaningful moments with participants from other nations. I believe we’ll return to Portugal with great memories—not only from the competitions but also from the hospitality and culture of Timor-Leste.”
Following the official welcome, the Portuguese delegation proceeded to Hotel Timor, where they will stay throughout the competition period.
The CPLP Youth Games will be held from 19 to 27 July, bringing together delegations from member states, except Brazil and Equatorial Guinea, which will not participate in this edition.
The event is a multi-sport competition that brings together young athletes from all CPLP member countries. Similar to the Lusophone Games, it is open only to participants under 16 and aims to strengthen friendship and unity among youth in Portuguese-speaking nations.
Journalist: Afonso do Rosário
Editor: Isaura Lemos de Deus
Translation: Camilio de Sousa
