IOC President Thomas Bach expressed optimism that the upcoming 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal will be "a tremendous success" during his visit to the first African host of any Olympic event.
DAKAR, Oct. 18 (Xinhua) -- International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach expressed optimism on Thursday about the upcoming Youth Olympic Games (YOG) set to take place in Senegal in 2026, calling it a "great success" in the making.
"After reviewing updates and visiting several construction sites, I can confidently say that we all expect these YOG in Dakar to be a tremendous success, not just for Senegal but for the entire African continent," Bach said during a press conference.
Bach's visit to Senegal, which began on Wednesday, is part of ongoing preparations for the YOG, scheduled from October 31 to November 13, 2026.
"The organizing committee has done exceptional work. We are confident its members are up to the challenge and can count on the strong support of the Senegalese authorities," Bach noted, adding that this level of commitment promises "a remarkable celebration for Africa - a youthful continent rising in prominence in both sport and the Olympic movement."
He emphasized the event's significance as a chance to showcase Africa's leadership on the global stage. "This extraordinary project, led by Senegal and its government, will demonstrate Africa's growing influence in the world of sports."
The fourth edition of the YOG, and the first ever to be hosted on African soil, will bring together athletes aged 15 to 18 to compete in 35 sports. Originally slated for 2022, the games were postponed to 2026. The events will take place in three cities: Dakar, Diamniadio (30 km from Dakar), and Saly (88 km from Dakar). The official slogan for the games is "Africa welcomes, Dakar celebrates." ■