International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry has arrived in Senegal's capital, Dakar, ahead of the Youth Olympic Games. The event, scheduled to take place from October 26 to November 11, 2026, will bring together 2,700 young athletes from around the world. Coventry, the first African and first woman to head the Olympic body, was welcomed by dozens of volunteers at the airport. She expressed her excitement to be in Senegal, highlighting the country's enthusiasm for hosting the event.
The Youth Olympic Games in Dakar will feature 35 sports, including three new additions: wushu, a Chinese martial art, baseball5, a variant of baseball, and skateboarding. These sports will make their Olympic debut at the event. The games aim to inspire young people, promote Olympic values, and encourage them to see sport as a vehicle for peace and solidarity. The event will take place in three locations: Diamniadio, Dakar, and Saly.
The opening ceremony of the Youth Olympic Games is scheduled to take place on October 29, 2026, in Diamniadio, about 40 kilometers outside of Dakar. The ceremony will mark the beginning of two weeks of sporting events. The Youth Olympics were first held in Singapore in 2010 and have since become a regular event. Senegal is the first African country to host the event.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry expressed her confidence in Senegal's ability to host a successful event. She praised the country's enthusiasm and energy, saying that Senegal is going to do an "incredible job" of welcoming the world's athletes. Coventry also highlighted the importance of the event in promoting African traditions and values.
The Youth Olympic Games in Dakar will feature young athletes predominantly between the ages of 15 and 17. The event aims to provide a platform for young people to come together, compete, and learn from each other. The games will also promote Olympic values, such as friendship, respect, and fair play.
Senegal's President Macky Sall has been involved in preparations for the event. The country has been working to ensure a successful event, with support from the IOC and other international partners. The games are expected to have a positive impact on Senegal and the wider region.
The IOC has been working closely with Senegalese authorities to ensure a successful event. The organization has provided support and resources to help prepare for the games. With the event just days away, all preparations are underway for a successful Youth Olympic Games in Dakar.
Key points
- The Youth Olympic Games in Dakar will feature 2,700 young athletes competing in 35 sports.
- IOC President Kirsty Coventry is the first African and first woman to head the Olympic body.
- The event aims to promote Olympic values and encourage young people to see sport as a vehicle for peace and solidarity.
