Historic milestone — The countdown has begun. On Saturday evening, the Youth Olympic Games (YOG) will kick off in Dakar, Senegal, marking a groundbreaking moment for Africa and the global sporting calendar. For the first time, the continent will play host to an Olympic event, setting the stage for 2,665 young athletes from 14 to 17 years old.

“Africa is welcoming the world,” declared banners across Dakar, capturing the essence of these Summer Youth Olympic Games. With 25 sports and 153 medal events, the stage is set for a celebration of youth, talent, and ambition.

A new era for African sports

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry, a former swimmer from Zimbabwe, emphasized the significance of this moment. “We are bringing people from all over the world who may have had a very different idea of Africa,” she said during a press briefing in Dakar. “I hope they leave with truly positive impressions. This is a pivotal moment for the continent.”

Where talent meets opportunity

From athletics and beach wrestling to skateboarding, basketball, and breaking, the competitions will unfold across eight venues in three cities: Dakar, Diamniadio (30 km from Dakar), and Saly (80 km from the capital), along the coast.

The opening ceremony on Saturday evening in Diamniadio will launch this historic event, featuring 136 athletes from Senegal alongside competitors from around the globe.