IOC Praises Dakar Youth Games, Debates Their Future

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) praised the organization and impact of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games on Thursday. However, the committee acknowledged that the future of the event is uncertain and that it is reassessing its role in developing the next generation of athletes.

Senegal became the first African country to host an Olympic sporting event. About 2,700 athletes from 204 National Olympic Committees competed in the fourth Summer Youth Olympic Games, which began on October 31. The Games ended on Friday. Athletes aged between 15 and 18 competed in 25 sports.

IOC President Kirsty Coventry said at a press conference in Diamniadio that the event had exceeded expectations. Coventry highlighted the strong performance of African athletes and the efforts of Senegalese organizers, volunteers and National Olympic Committees. Competitions and cultural events were held in Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly during the Games.

Meanwhile, the IOC faces the question of whether the Youth Olympic Games will continue in their current format. In May, the committee suspended the host selection process for the 2030 Summer Youth Olympic Games. Coventry said the format review is ongoing and that data from Dakar will be included in the decision.