In a historic milestone for the continent, Senegal’s capital, Dakar, is set to host the 4th Summer Youth Olympic Games (YOG) from October 31 to November 13, 2026. This marks the first time an Olympic event will be held on African soil, symbolizing a significant step in the continent’s sporting history.
The selection of Dakar as the host city reflects the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) commitment to expanding the Games to new regions. The IOC has stated that Dakar 2026 aims to be “a catalyst for a sporting, social, cultural, educational and economic transformation that will create new hope, opportunities and confidence for young people.”
Preparations are well underway, with major investments in sports infrastructure. The renovation of the Olympic Swimming Pool in Dakar and the rehabilitation of the Iba Mar Diop Stadium are both progressing smoothly, with expected completion by December 2025. These venues will play central roles during the Games.
The Senegalese government has already mobilized over 18.2 billion CFA francs out of the 36 billion pledged to support the Games. These funds are being directed toward infrastructure, logistics, and athlete support. Additionally, ECOWAS (the Economic Community of West African States) has contributed $300,000, showing strong regional backing.
Dakar 2026 will be the first Youth Olympic Games to achieve full gender equality, with equal events for men and women, including 239 competitions: 114 men’s, 114 women’s, and 11 mixed-gender events. Notably, combat sports like boxing and wrestling will reach gender parity for the first time. Newer, youth-focused sports like skateboarding, surfing, break dancing, and baseball will also be featured.
As the countdown continues, Dakar 2026 stands as a powerful symbol of Africa’s rising role in the global sporting world. It promises to be a celebration of youth and diversity and a landmark moment in Olympic history.
