Dakar: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced an initial list of 31 Athlete Role Models for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, marking an important step in preparations for the first Olympic sporting event to be held on the African continent. The Athlete Role Models, who include multiple Olympic champions and medallists, will provide mentoring and workshop training to young athletes on site during Dakar 2026.According to African Press Organization, experienced Olympians from the 25 competition sports and 10 engagement sports on the Dakar 2026 programme have been selected in collaboration with the International Federations. The selected Athlete Role Models are renowned figures such as Clarisse Agbegnenou from France in judo, Stéphane Badji from Senegal in football, and Christopher Bak from the USA in rowing, among others.These Athlete Role Models will engage with competing athletes, offering support and advice around competition, and participate in educational workshops that cover topics like career management, injury prevention, and mental preparation. They will also attend training sessions, engage with the local community, support athletes from the sidelines, and be present at victory ceremonies.Chinese Olympic champion in badminton, Shiwei Zheng, expressed his enthusiasm for being an Athlete Role Model, highlighting the opportunity to lead and uplift others. Similarly, Asunción Batista, recognized as the best player in the world in beach handball in 2022, shared her excitement about contributing to a purpose larger than herself. Senegals Combe Seck spoke of the pride in representing her city, Dakar, as an Athlete Role Model, while Ugandan swimmer Jamila Lunkuse emphasized the importance of representation.Douglas Brose from Brazil, a prominent figure in men's kumite, explained his motivation to inspire young athletes beyond just winning medals. IOC Athletes Department Director Kaveh Mehrabi underscored the significance of Athlete Role Models in inspiring and guiding young athletes, emp hasizing their invaluable contribution to the mission of Dakar 2026 and beyond.This initiative reflects the IOC's dedication to providing a meaningful athlete experience at the Youth Olympic Games and supporting the legacy of Dakar 2026 in Senegal and across Africa. The Dakar 2026 YOG is scheduled to occur from 31 October to 13 November 2026, bringing together approximately 2,700 young athletes up to the age of 17 across three host zones: Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly.
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