The third edition of the fair, promoted by the Canary Islands Government's Ministry of Education, Vocational Training, Physical Activity and Sports and organized by the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, stood out for its large public turnout and the interest in its sports offerings, as well as the conferences and talks held at the Auditorio Alfredo Kraus. Health, inclusion, and the social impact of sport were central themes of the discussions.
The vice-president of the Canary Islands Government, Manuel Domínguez, accompanied by the Minister of Sports, Poli Suárez, toured the venue and participated in a recognition ceremony for the event's sponsors and collaborators. Domínguez had the opportunity to experience disciplines such as Canarian ball, adapted football, shepherd's leap, agility, urban dance, and crossfit firsthand.
ExpoDeca 2026's educational program brought together nearly a thousand people for congresses, seminars, and presentations at the Auditorio Alfredo Kraus. Topics covered included sports management, health, competition organization, and public-private collaboration. The national congress of the Spanish Federation of Sports Management Associations (FAGDE), with 140 attendees, was particularly noteworthy.
The Activídate project, promoted by the Canary Islands Government, presented its future strategy. This public and free service refers patients from the healthcare system to physical exercise units where tailored training plans are designed. Noemí Rodríguez, director of Activídate, confirmed that there are already nearly a thousand users and the aim is to extend the service to all municipalities in the Canary Islands.
The 'Sport and Disability' forum, promoted by the Fundación DISA and with the participation of the Spanish Paralympic Committee, was another highlight. Additionally, the parents of international footballer Mikel Merino shared their experiences in managing their son's sports career.
The economic, social, and tourism impact of major sporting events was analyzed during the presentation of the Rally Islas Canarias, which reported a direct economic impact exceeding 69 million euros. The North Face Transgrancanaria presented its sustainability assessment report, becoming the first sports event to calculate its carbon footprint according to the Canary Islands Carbon Footprint Registry.
Other disciplines such as dog agility, rugby, baseball, softball, padel, the Las Canteras open-water swim, and crossfit and urban dance competitions rounded off the day. The fair, spread across 34,000 square meters, is supported by numerous sponsors and collaborators.
