Pope Benedict XVI spoke about World Youth Day during the general audience on Wednesday 24 August 2011. He had just returned from his trip to Madrid in Spain where the 26th World Youth Day had taken place. He said that he had been a privileged witness of that amazing manifestation of faith. He gave a brief account of the events to the pilgrims gathered in the courtyard of the apostolic palace and the forecourt outside, and he entrusted the fruits of this WYD to the maternal intercession of Our Lady.

At the end of the audience, Benedict XVI announced the themes of the next two World Youth Days. The 2012 WYD will take place at diocesan level with the theme: "Rejoice in the Lord always" (Phil 4:4). World Youth Day 2013 will be held in Rio de Janeiro with the theme: "Go and make disciples of all nations!" (cf Mt 28:19). The Pope concluded by saying that he would entrust the preparations for these important events to prayer.