On November 1, 2026, Pope Leo XIV extended his warm congratulations and blessings to the over 2,600 young athletes taking part in the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Dakar, Senegal. The games, which kicked off on October 31, 2026, mark the first Olympic event to be held on African soil. The Pope expressed his enthusiasm for the event, highlighting its significance as a beacon of hope for the world of sports.
The Youth Olympic Games have brought together athletes aged 15 to 18 from 204 national Olympic committees, including the Olympic refugee team. The event aims to promote Olympic values, education, and cultural exchange among the participants. Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of sports as a tool for cooperation, fostering values that go beyond mere competition and medal hunting.
During his address, the Pope praised the educational and cultural aspects of the YOG, which include activities designed to promote mutual understanding among young people from diverse backgrounds. He expressed his admiration for the event, which he sees as a platform for young athletes to come together, share experiences, and build relationships.
The Dakar 2026 YOG is a historic event for Africa, marking the first time the continent has hosted an Olympic event. The games are expected to feature a range of sports and activities, providing a unique opportunity for young athletes to showcase their talents and learn from one another. The event's focus on education, culture, and sportsmanship aligns with the Pope's vision of sports as a force for good.
The Pope's message to the young athletes was conveyed after the Angelus prayer on November 1, 2026. He expressed his encouragement and support for the participants, urging them to make the most of this experience. The event, which will run until November 13, 2026, is expected to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among the participants.
According to the Pope, the YOG embodies the values of hope, friendship, and fair play that are at the heart of the Olympic movement. He commended the organizers and participants for their efforts in making this event a reality, highlighting its potential to inspire and empower young people around the world.
As the games continue in Dakar, the Pope's message of encouragement and blessing serves as a reminder of the significance of this event. The Dakar 2026 YOG is a milestone in the Olympic movement, marking a new chapter in the history of African sports. The event's legacy is expected to extend beyond the games themselves, inspiring a new generation of athletes and promoting the values of sportsmanship and cooperation.
Key points
- The Pope congratulated and blessed over 2,600 young athletes participating in the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.
- The games mark the first Olympic event to be held on African soil, featuring athletes from 204 national Olympic committees.
- The Pope emphasized the importance of sports as a tool for cooperation, fostering values that go beyond mere competition and medal hunting.
