100 Days to Dakar 2026: The IOC Praises Community Support

100 Days to Dakar 2026: The IOC Praises Community Support

The Youth Olympic Games (YOG), a high-level sporting event for talented young athletes from around the world aged 17 and under, took place from October 31 to November 13, 2026, in Dakar, Senegal. This event marked the first time in Olympic history that a sporting event occurred on African soil. With 100 days remaining until the opening, Christophe Dubi, executive director of the Olympic Games and Youth Olympic Games at the International Olympic Committee (IOC), responded to questions from RFI.

Dubi expressed a sense of enthusiasm for the upcoming YOG, noting the excellent preparations and positive energy surrounding the event. "My prevailing feeling regarding these YOG is enthusiasm. We can really see that things are coming together, and there is a very positive energy behind this event. There is a lot of commitment, but, of course, at 100 days out, there are always concerns because in event management, preparations are often finalized late. There are many temporary constructions and late recruitments, so we are in a system that ramps up exponentially. As we near the event, we must be concerned. It requires humility and confidence."

Regarding infrastructure, Dubi was particularly impressed by the facilities at Tour de l'Œuf and Iba Mar Diop, which will host football, athletics, and rugby. He noted the significant legacy this development provides for the city of Dakar and for sports among youth. However, he pointed out that there is still considerable work to be done on the Olympic Village in Diamniadio, although he was assured that it will be completed.

In July, Dubi observed a tangible interest and mobilization among the population in Dakar and across Senegal. "You have a government that is fully engaged, and the media are closely following the progress of the work. Yes, there is significant interest. A whole society is mobilizing. The volunteers, most of whom are young, and the Dakar 2026 Academy program aim to train young managers in event organization. This is part of the objective of these Games—creating opportunities for youth."

Dubi emphasized the strong human legacy that the YOG would leave, not just for Senegal but for all of Africa. He discussed the training of young people, including those from various African Olympic committees. "It's a wonderful human legacy for Senegal, Africa, and for these complex events. The facilities being constructed will allow for hosting world championships and regional competitions, thus providing strong benefits for the continent."

Dubi highlighted that the development of sports facilities in Dakar is also designed to help African athletes train and compete effectively. He expressed that these renovations would significantly benefit both young and professional athletes.

The Youth Olympic Flame will be lit in Athens on September 10, arriving in Dakar on September 12, generating excitement across the country during its 20-day journey before the Games commence. Dubi underscored that this arrival would create considerable enthusiasm, as everyone would want to participate in the celebrations around the flame.

Finally, he asserted that the success of the YOG is vital not only for credibility but also for showcasing Africa’s ability to organize major international events, similar to past successes like the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.