U.S. athlete and Olympic gold medallist Simone Biles is set to visit Buenos Aires city in October. Biles, the most decorated gymnast in history, will give a motivational talk and run a fitness clinic in October, part of Buenos Aires’ designation as World Capital of Sport for 2027.
“I am very excited to announce that I will be in Buenos Aires for a few days, as it has been chosen as the 2027 World Capital of Sport,” said Biles in a short video, part of the announcement by the Buenos Aires City government. “I can’t wait to see you all.”
Biles is set to arrive on October 6 for two official events. First, she will give a motivational conference entitled “The Power of Believing,” in which she will share her experiences in overcoming adversity. The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. in Buenos Aires City Hall.
After that, she’ll lead a gymnastics clinic at the Villa Soldati Olympic Park on Thursday, October 9, at 5 p.m. According to the announcement, the event is aimed at young local talent, who will have “the unique opportunity to learn from the best gymnast of all time.”
“Simone Biles’ visit to Buenos Aires represents a historic milestone for the local and international sporting community,” said the Buenos Aires City Sports Department, “and a boost for thousands of young people who see her as a source of inspiration.”
Who is Simone Biles?
Considered one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, Simone Biles was born in Columbus, Ohio in the United States on March 14, 1997.
She started practising gymnastics at age six, and first broke into the spotlight in 2013, winning two gold medals in the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships. At the Rio 2016 Olympics, she won the all-around, team, vault, and floor exercises gold medals and also claimed bronze on the balance beam.
Many expected a similar performance at Tokyo 2020, but she withdrew from most events, citing mental health concerns. Biles’ decision sparked debates about mental health challenges for elite athletes and she has since become an advocate for mental health in sports and in general.
Biles was once again at her best at Paris 2024, taking home the gold in team, all-around and vault categories, thus becoming the first woman to win two Olympic all-around golds non-consecutively.