IOC President Arrives in Senegal Ahead of Youth Olympic Games

International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry has arrived in Dakar, Senegal, ahead of the 2026 Youth Olympic Games, a historic event for African sport.

The competition will mark the first time an Olympic event is held on the African continent. Coventry, a former Zimbabwean swimmer, is the first woman and the first African to lead the IOC.

A Landmark for African Sport

The Games are expected to bring together approximately 2,700 athletes aged 15 to 18 to compete across 35 sports. Events will take place in Dakar and the nearby locations of Diamniadio and Saly.

The programme includes emerging and established disciplines, offering young athletes an international platform to compete and gain experience.

Senegal Prepares to Welcome the World

Coventry has expressed confidence in Senegal's preparations and welcomed the enthusiasm surrounding the event.

Beyond the sporting competition, the Games are expected to showcase Senegalese culture and provide an opportunity to highlight Africa's growing role in international sport.