Dakar 2026: First Olympic sports event to be held in Africa

Senegal is preparing to host the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG), scheduled from October 31 to November 13, 2026. Based on the information available, it will be the first Olympic sports event to be held in Africa, a milestone described as historic for both the country and the continent.

The competitions will not be limited to Dakar. Diamniadio and Saly are also expected to take part in hosting the event, which will combine sport with objectives related to youth, education, inclusion, cultural exchange and sustainable development.

An unprecedented event for the continent

Until now, Olympic events have been held in Europe, Asia, the Americas and Oceania. Senegal’s hosting of the 2026 YOG is therefore set to mark Africa’s first inclusion among the host regions of an Olympic sports event.

The project also aims to showcase the diversity of African sporting practices. Beyond football and long-distance running, the disciplines mentioned include basketball, traditional wrestling, surfing, cycling and skateboarding.

25 competition sports announced

Dakar 2026 plans to feature 25 competition sports and 10 engagement sports. For the organisers, the challenge goes beyond the awarding of medals: the project focuses on legacy, the participation of local communities, and ensuring material and human benefits are passed on to young people beyond the Games period.

In this context, sport is presented as a tool for dialogue, social cohesion and inspiration for African youth. The event is also expected to offer a showcase for an Africa driven by its young talent and the diversity of its sporting disciplines.