Dakar Youth Olympics: Who gets to hold the flame?

The 2026 Youth Olympic Games, the first ever to be hosted on African soil, commenced in Dakar, Senegal on Saturday, marking a significant milestone for the continent. The Games, which will see young competitors aged 14 to 17 from around the world, include 153 medal events across 25 sports.

Dakar, hosting nearly 2,665 participants, is bracing for the influx of young athletes. The event also marks the return of Russian athletes to the Olympics, with 13 Russian athletes and 10 coaches participating under the Russian Olympic Committee's reinstated flag.

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry, a former Zimbabwean swimmer, emphasized the importance of the Games for Africa, stating that the event will help dispel misconceptions about the continent. She expressed hope that the Games will leave a positive impression on those who attend.

The Games will be held in three locations: Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly. Senegal, known for its sports culture, including football, traditional wrestling, and surfing, is set to host 136 of its own athletes. The nation is renowned for its vibrant sports culture, with football matches and group exercises being common occurrences in the evenings and on weekends.

However, despite the excitement surrounding the Games, many Senegalese are more preoccupied with economic challenges such as high living costs and unemployment. Prime Minister Ahmadou Al Aminou Lo expressed optimism about the impact of the Games, stating that it will make Dakar the capital of African youth.

With Russian athletes returning to the Olympics, the Games also feature a refugee Olympic team, highlighting the event's inclusivity. The IOC sees the Dakar Games as a significant milestone for Africa, showcasing the continent's growing role within the Olympics and Senegal's cultural richness. South Africa, having previously hosted the men's FIFA World Cup in 2010, is in contention to host the Olympic Games in 2036.