Disappointment for Lancaster as 2026 International Youth Games called off

This year's International Youth Games - where Lancaster was again due to compete against its twin towns - have been cancelled.

The International Youth Games, which sees Lancaster and towns from Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands compete across several different sports, celebrated its 50th year in 2025.

This year's Games were due to take place in Almere in the Netherlands this summer.

But a post on the International Youth Games Almere Facebook page said: "The International Youth Games Almere 2026 are cancelled.

"This brings an end to almost 40 years of International Youth Games for Almere. We look back with great pleasure!"

Organisers said: "The financial risks became too great to allow the Games to go ahead" and that they were "incredibly disappointed".

Aalborg in Denmark, last year's hosts, and Rendsburg in Germany were also due to compete.

Lancaster traditionally sends a large team of young people to compete in the Games.

Last year there were 11 events, with Lancaster competing in athletics, badminton, basketball, golf, karate and swimming.

The event is due to take place in Lancaster in 2027.

"All our sports should have been told by now, but unfortunately the Games this year in Almere have been cancelled," said a post on the International Youth Games - Lancaster Facebook page.

"This is sad, and we know the organisers have not taken this step lightly.

"We are now focusing all our efforts on Lancaster 2027!

"Of course, Almere will be invited!

"Your sports leaders will be in touch regarding refunds etc."

Read more: Lancaster team all set as 50th anniversary International Youth Games gets under way - Beyond Radio