The 1983 Pan American Games, officially known as the IX Pan American Games (Spanish: IX Juegos Panamericanos) and commonly known as Caracas 1983, were held in Caracas, Venezuela from August 14 to August 29, 1983.

The games were the first major international competition to include relatively accurate steroid testing.

[2][3] Four cities submitted bids to host the 1983 Pan American Games that were recognized by the Pan American Sports Organization (PASO); however, only one city, Hamilton, Ontario submitted their bid on time.

On April 23, 1977, Caracas, Venezuela was selected over Hamilton, Canada in a two-city vote to host the IX Pan American Games by the PASO at its general assembly in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The 1983 Games' mascot was a lion holding a 1983 sign named Santiaguito.