Youth Olympics open in Senegal, first Olympic event in Africa
Dakar hosts the Youth Olympic Games. The IOC head spoke of its meaning.
Why it matters: Africa hosts an Olympic event for the first time.
Sources: Al Jazeera · See it on the globe
One Turn
Open the globe →
The story so far · 4 days, October 30 to November 2, 2026
Youth Olympics open in Senegal, first Olympic event in Africa
One Turn followed this story across 4 editions, from Dakar, Senegal on October 30, 2026. Newest first.
The Youth Games are for ages 14 to 18.
Open the latest on the 3D globe →
Day by day
- First Youth Olympics in Africa open in Dakar
- First Olympic event in Africa opens in Dakar
- Youth Olympics open in Dakar, first Olympic event in Africa
- Youth Olympics open in Senegal, first Olympic event in Africa
Every installment
Youth Olympics open in Dakar, first Olympic event in Africa
Senegal's president opened the Games with drummers and dancers. 136 Senegalese athletes compete.
Why it matters: Africa hosts an Olympic event for the first time.
Sources: France 24, Africanews, France 24 · See it on the globe
First Olympic event in Africa opens in Dakar
The Youth Olympic Games opened in Dakar with about 2,700 athletes aged 14 to 17. IOC president Kirsty Coventry called it a time for Africa. Events run through Nov. 13.
Why it matters: It is the first Olympic event held on African soil.
Sources: France 24, Africanews, RFI · See it on the globe
First Youth Olympics in Africa open in Dakar
Dakar hosts nearly 2,700 athletes from Oct. 31 to Nov. 13, the first Olympic event in Africa.
Why it matters: First Olympic event on the continent.
Sources: France 24, Japan Times · See it on the globe