The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee (YOGOC) has unveiled its official motto for the next edition of the YOG during a presentation at the 142nd IOC Session in Paris.
The motto – “Africa welcomes, Dakar celebrates” – highlights the uniqueness of this edition of the YOG, Senegal being the first African country to host an Olympic sports event. The YOGOC has stressed that the YOG will be an all-African event.
With its motto, Dakar 2026 wishes to develop a brand that underscores its unique vision of the YOG, which looks forward to an event that blends Senegalese Teranga – the generosity of spirit and hospitality of the host nation – with sport, youth, hope and celebration.
“This motto is designed to capture the essence of African hospitality and the festive spirit of Dakar, while inviting the world to share and celebrate together,” saidKirsty Coventry, IOC Member and Chair of the Coordination Commission for the Dakar 2026 YOG.
The Games will be held over two weeks, starting on 31 October 2026, and will bring together the cream of the world’s young athletes. They will be celebrated at three venues (Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly), and intend to serve as a catalyst for Senegal’s transformation through sport, as well as a model for future hosts of the YOG.
Mobilizing fans during Paris 2024
Kirsty Coventry also revealed the plans of Dakar 2026 to engage fans at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
With Île-Saint-Denis transformed into “Africa Station”, a fan zone dedicated to African culture and sport, the YOGOC will spice the celebrations with a special programme of activities throughout the Games.
Dakar 2026 will also host a series of events at the celebration site located at Parc Georges-Valbon, Seine-Saint-Denis, which will vibrate with broadcasts on giant screens, interactive workshops, artistic events and sports activities during the Games.
