The Virginia Commonwealth Games are headed to the Richmond area.

For the first time in the event’s 36-year history, the games will be hosted in the Richmond Region beginning in 2026, officials with Virginia Amateur Sports announced during a July 10 news conference. The three-year agreement will see thousands of amateur athletes compete in venues across Chesterfield and Henrico counties.

“We are excited to work with the Richmond Region,” said Virginia Amateur Sports President Dan Foutz. “From our very first conversations, their commitment to amateur athletics was evident.”

The games attract as many as 10,000 athletes annually to compete in more than 30 sports ranging from track and field to tennis. Organizers said Richmond’s central location and strong regional partnerships made it an ideal host.

Chesterfield County and Henrico County will work with Virginia Amateur Sports to stage events across the region.

“Chesterfield County is honored to carry the torch and host the Virginia Commonwealth Games after its proud legacy in Lynchburg,” said J.C. Poma, executive director of Chesterfield Sports, Visitation & Entertainment. “We’re ready to deliver an exceptional experience for athletes and their families.”

Athletes of all ages and skill levels are eligible to participate in the games, which have previously been held in Roanoke and Lynchburg. Since their founding, More than 310,000 athletes have competed in the annual Olympic-style competition since its founding.

Roanoke will remain the headquarters for Virginia Amateur Sports, and officials said events such as triathlons and Special Olympics hosted in the Roanoke Valley will continue.