Following editions in Singapore in 2010, England in 2012 and Argentina in 2018, the Youth Olympic Games will be held in Dakar, Senegal, from 31 October to 13 November 2026. These Games, established in 2007, aim to promote Olympic values and encourage participation in sport. This fourth edition, the first to be held in Africa, will bring together nearly 2,700 athletes across 35 disciplines, representing 206 countries.
Initiated by Jacques Rogge, former President of the International Olympic Committee, and approved in 2007, the first Youth Olympic Games were held in 2010 in Singapore, in 2012 in England, and then in 2018 in Argentina. Held every four years, these Games provide a platform for athletes aged 14 to 18 to compete in various disciplines with the aim of promoting young sporting talent from around the world, supporting them in their career development, and encouraging them to live in accordance with Olympic values. Originally scheduled for 2022 and postponed to 2026, the 4th edition, to be held in Dakar, Senegal, from 31 October to 13 November, will make history as the first Olympic competition on the African continent.
Undoubtedly, the Dakar 2026 YOG will be a moment of glory for Senegal and for Africa. But beyond that, these Games will leave a lasting legacy in terms of infrastructure, facilities, organisation, skills and collective confidence. With six months to go before the opening ceremony, our country is counting not only on the Defence and Security Forces, but also on the mobilisation of our young people, the arts and culture sectors, and our external partners to rise to this national challenge and this continental endeavour.
Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of the Republic – Senegal
For this first African edition, Dakar was the obvious choice due to its plan to boost the economy, develop sports facilities and celebrate African culture by placing young people at the heart of the event.
In the run-up to the Youth Olympic Games, the defence and security forces are fully mobilised. The National Gendarmerie and Police are preparing a comprehensive security operation for Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly. Sport contributes to the well-being of the population, the strengthening of national unity and our country’s international standing. Thousands of personnel, supported by land, sea and air assets, will be deployed to ensure the smooth running of this historic event.
Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of the Republic – Senegal
Senegal is breaking new ground with the Learning Academy, a training programme spanning several months aimed at making young people key players in the organisation of this Olympic event. Nearly 2,700 athletes are expected to take part, representing 206 countries across 35 disciplines. For Africa, these Games represent an opportunity to stimulate economic, sporting and social transformation, enhance the continent’s image, and empower young people.
