An unprecedented sporting and cultural celebration is coming to Paraguay, as the COP Expo 2026 transforms the Parque Olímpico in Luque into a hub of high-level sport, family entertainment, and live music from Thursday 26 to Sunday 29 March, 2026. The four-day event, running daily from 10:00 to 20:00, marks Paraguay’s first major milestone on the road to hosting the Pan American Games ASU 2031.
COP Expo 2026 brings together Olympic champions, dozens of Paraguayan athletes, interactive demonstrations, clinics, and inclusive activities for all ages, with free entry (prior registration required via the official COP Expo website).
Star attraction: Olympic BMX Champion
Two international headliners are generating particular excitement. Argentine BMX Freestyle sensation José “Maligno” Torres, who stormed to Olympic gold at Paris 2024 with a near-perfect score of 94.82, will make a special appearance. Torres – the first Argentine to win Olympic gold in the discipline – is set to deliver an acrobatic BMX show on Thursday 27 March in the afternoon. He will also join the public cycling ride on Friday 28 March at 10:00.
Known for his bold, aggressive style and his growing role as an ambassador for urban cycling in Latin America, Torres has expressed enthusiasm about connecting with Paraguayan riders and sharing his journey from local tracks to Olympic glory. Fans can expect an exciting display of tricks, jumps, and ramps, as well as the chance to meet the champion in person.
Sountrack of the weekend
Adding the soundtrack to the weekend is DJ Ronald, son of Brazilian football legend Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima. The rising electronic music artist, who has already shared stages with names such as Alok, Vintage Culture, and Liu, will perform on Friday 27 March at 19:00. His high-energy set will follow the evening roller and skate parade, turning the venue into an open-air party that blends sport, movement, and music.
Complementing the electronic vibes, the Brazilian group Frenesi – celebrating 25 years of samba and pagode – will take the stage as part of the “Tardecita” family-friendly sessions on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 March from 17:00. Their performances promise to create a festive, communal atmosphere.
Day-by-day COP Expo 2026 highlights
To help visitors plan their visit, here is a chronological overview of key activities (full agenda and updates available on the official website):
Thursday 26 March
- Event opening and general activities from 10:00,
- International athlete appearances and exhibitions throughout the day,
- José “Maligno” Torres BMX show and public interaction in the afternoon.
Friday 27 March
- Roller and skate parade at 19:00, joined by DJ Ronald.
- Ongoing competitions, demonstrations (including artistic gymnastics clinics, fitness challenges, and simulator experiences), and family activities.
Saturday 28 March
- 10:00: Cycling ride (Paseo ciclístico), with José “Maligno” Torres.
- 10:00 onwards: Full programme of sports demonstrations, clinics (judo, padel, bowling, weightlifting, etc.), and federated competitions (e.g., taekwondo).
- 17:00: Tardecita with live music from Grupo Frenesi,
- Evening entertainment and inclusive activities by Special Olympics.
Sunday 29 March
- 08:00: Traditional Tirikarrera fun run/walk (adult and children’s categories), with the popular mascot Tirika,
- 10:00 onwards: Continued exhibitions, family zones, and sports trials,
- 17:00: Final Tardecita session with Grupo Frenesi.
See champions, try disciplines!
Throughout the weekend, more than 30 Paraguayan athletes from over 20 disciplines – including rowing, athletics, golf, judo, skating, tennis, beach volleyball, and basketball 3×3 – will showcase their talents alongside international stars such as Brazilian Olympic gymnastics champion Arthur Zanetti and world skate champions Julika, Danilo Senna, and Nicoly Machado.
Visitors can try disciplines themselves through open clinics, simulators, and interactive zones, while children and families enjoy inclusive activities, outdoor recreation, and cultural elements. The event also features training sessions from local gyms and spaces for networking between athletes, federations, and businesses.
Practical COP Expo 2026 information
- Venue: Parque Olímpico, Autopista Ñu Guasu, Luque,
- Hours: 10:00-20:00 daily,
- Entry: Free with prior registration at www.copexpo.com.py (tickets for special activities such as the Tirikarrera or courses available via the site),
- Social media: COP Expo on Instagram for live updates.
