The first decisions of the organization of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games
Juan José Saldaña
November 11, 2024

With less than two years until the start of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG), preparations are progressing at full speed. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Coordination Commission met in Dakar to assess the progress, confirming the commitment of both Senegal and the IOC to hold a historic event on the African continent. During this sixth meeting, progress in infrastructure and renovation work at key venues, such as the Tour de l’Oeuf and the Stade Iba Mar Diop, which are set to be ready by the end of 2025, were highlighted.

There is palpable enthusiasm among the organizers, who hope that these facilities will not only serve the Games but also benefit Senegalese youth in the long term. The Youth Olympic Village in Diamniadio is also expected to be a major highlight, with its completion scheduled for October 2025. These infrastructures are part of a renewed approach to sports planning, designed to reflect the local context and promote gender equality.

SPORTS PROGRAM AND INNOVATIONS

The Organizing Committee (YOGOC) has been adjusting the sports program to align with new trends and ensure relevance both locally and internationally. Dakar 2026 will pioneer a revised model featuring 25 sports in the main competition and 10 additional ones in the participation program. This inclusive approach aims to promote gender equality and greater African representation, in collaboration with the International Federations.

The IOC Executive Commission plans to finalize specific details, such as disciplines and athlete quotas, in December. In addition, marketing and communication strategies have been implemented, with the launch of the official website Dakar2026.com and social media channels, marking a new chapter in the event’s promotion and in the preparation of young athletes.

ACADEMY AND LEGACY

One of the most ambitious projects is the Dakar 2026 Games Academy, which will train 400 Senegalese and African youth in sports management and event organization. This initiative will not only benefit the organization of the Games but also lay the foundation for future leaders in the continent’s sports sector. According to Nawal El Moutawakel, IOC Vice President, this project will provide key skills that will shape the future of sport in Africa.

“The enthusiasm and dedication observed in the preparations ensure that Dakar 2026 will leave a lasting legacy in Senegal and beyond,” said El Moutawakel, highlighting the importance of these efforts for regional sports development.

THE FUTURE OF DAKAR 2026

As the event approaches, the Youth Organizing Committee will significantly increase its team, growing from 80 to 330 members by the end of 2025. In addition, a volunteer program will be launched, and iconic elements such as the official poster, theme song, mascot, and medal will be revealed next year. Ticket sales are also expected to begin in 2025, allowing the public to join in the celebrations.

Ibrahima Wade, the General Coordinator of the Organizing Committee, expressed his satisfaction with the progress made: “We are in the final stretch, and the positive feedback from the IOC motivates us to keep up the momentum.” With strong government support and strategic collaborations, the Dakar 2026 Games are set to be a transformative event for Africa and a milestone for the Olympic Movement.

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