SN Ongoing

Youth Olympic Games

The Youth Olympic Games is an international multi-sport competition scheduled to take place in Senegal from October 31 to November 13, 2026. As the first Olympic sporting event to be held on the African continent, it will feature approximately 2,700 athletes aged 15 to 18 competing in 35 sports across the host cities of Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly.

Date
Sep 12 - Nov 13, 2026
Location
Dakar
Status
Ongoing
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Youth Olympic Games

Event summary

Highlights

  • First Olympic-sanctioned sporting event to be hosted in Africa
  • Participation of approximately 2,700 young athletes ages 15 to 18
  • Competitions across 35 sports in Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly
  • 3,600-kilometer national torch relay spanning all 14 regions of Senegal
The 2026 Youth Olympic Games represent a historic milestone for Senegal and the African continent. The competition is centered in the capital city of Dakar, with additional events held in the neighboring cities of Diamniadio and Saly. The games aim to showcase African capability and inspire a new generation of athletes through a diverse program of 35 sports.

Festivities began on September 12, 2026, with the arrival of the Olympic flame at Dakar’s Place du Souvenir Africain. The arrival ceremony featured a procession of 100 Senegalese women, referred to as 'lingeer,' who carried the flame to celebrate local culture and the transmission of values between generations. Following its arrival, the flame is set to embark on a 3,600-kilometer (2,237-mile) national tour.

The torch relay will pass through all 14 regions of Senegal, involving more than 400 torchbearers before returning to the capital for the official opening ceremony. This nationwide journey serves as a countdown to the main competition, which gathers thousands of young participants from around the world.

Practical details

Location described by the source
Place du Souvenir Africain
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Area for browsing nearby events
Dakar

Before attending

Check the sources below for current opening times, admission prices and registration requirements. A date range does not mean the event runs continuously or that admission is free.

Sources and further information

Check these references for event announcements and updates before attending.

Location map

Approximate area only; exact venue coordinates are not confirmed.

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