For the first time, the Youth Olympic Games will include a Refugee Youth Olympic Team. This historic decision was announced following the meeting of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board in Lausanne, Switzerland. The team, reflecting the IOC’s commitment to inclusion and support for displaced individuals, will consist of young refugee athletes based in Africa, aligning with the spirit of the first Olympic Games held on the continent.

Dakar 2026 will provide a unique platform to highlight the global displacement crisis, which affects over 120 million people worldwide. Thomas Bach, IOC President, stated: “We look forward to bringing together the best young athletes at Dakar 2026 in an event that symbolizes unity and hope for those facing challenging circumstances.”

AFRICA: A HUB OF INCLUSION AND SPORT

Africa is home to over 47 million displaced individuals, making it the continent with the highest number of refugees. The Olympic Refuge Foundation, with programs in countries such as Kenya, Uganda, Burkina Faso, and Burundi, has been working for years to support affected communities through sport. These efforts will be vital for the preparation and support of the Refugee Youth Olympic Team.

The team’s composition will be determined at a later date, but it already represents a symbolic initiative reinforcing the transformative power of sport. The Dakar 2026 Games will not only be a milestone in sports but also a reminder of sport’s ability to connect and empower those facing the greatest challenges.