The Government of Vanuatu has confirmed it is already laying the groundwork for the next Pacific Games in Tahiti in 2027, following a successful return from the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau.

Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Job Andy, welcomed home Vanuatu’s 83 athletes at the airport this week, congratulating them for their performances and acknowledging their role as national sports ambassadors.

“Following the results from Palau, we must now prepare for the next challenge,” said Minister Andy. “With the achievements our team has made, we are looking ahead to ensure a stronger and better performance at the Pacific Games in 2027.”

Despite limited preparation, Vanuatu still secured several medals. Director of Youth and Sports, Jerol Arnhambat, echoed the Minister’s comments, adding that while the team managed to bring home success from Palau, more organized training and international partnerships will be key to future results.

“We already have plans in place to prepare a solid team for 2027,” said Arnhambat. “In the past, we’ve had agreements with partner countries like Japan and China, but for these Mini Games we didn’t fully utilize them. Now we’re planning to reactivate those partnerships and support full-time athlete development.”

Vanuatu table tennis veteran and flag bearer, Anolyn Lulu, once again led her team to medals in Palau and expressed pride in the younger athletes stepping up in various sports.

“I’m proud to represent Vanuatu again and win medals. But I’m even more proud to see our young athletes rise up and win in different sports,” Lulu said. “This shows real development for Vanuatu sports.”

Meanwhile, basketball coach Ricky Vira, who guided Vanuatu’s youth 3-on-3 teams at the Games, praised the performance and potential of his players.

“It’s been a valuable experience, especially competing against some of Oceania’s strongest basketball nations. This was my first time leading a national team, and I’m proud of how our young men and women performed,” said Vira. “With more time and support, we can get even better results.”

Families and supporters turned out in numbers to welcome the athletes at the airport. The positive energy has now shifted toward building a stronger national squad for the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti, with all eyes set on continued growth and performance.

Preparation is now focused on the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti.