To mark the milestone, celebrations began with the unveiling of the official Dakar 2026 mascot, followed later in the day by the inauguration of the OMEGA countdown clock in the heart of Senegal’s capital.

Let's Meet Ayo

Born in the land of Teranga—the Senegalese spirit of hospitality—mascot Ayo is a lion who roars with joy. The lion was chosen as a powerful symbol of pride, strength and community. Wearing the “mane of Africa,” Ayo embodies the energy and warmth of the Senegalese people and reflects the continent’s unity and optimism as it prepares to host the world.

The festivities will continue next week with the fourth and final edition of Dakar en Jeux, the annual cultural and sports festival that has become a highlight of the Dakar 2026 journey.

Image Source: An Atlantic port on the Cap-Vert peninsula, Dakar is capital of Senegal, in West Africa (International Olympic Committee)

Running from 4 to 9 November across the three host cities—Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly—the festival brings together local communities, students and artists through sport, music and visual arts to celebrate Olympic values.

Image Source: Two-time Olympic champion Kristof Milak of Hungary followed up his four wins at the World Junior Swimming Championships with three golds at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires (Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

And for good reason: these three cities will be home to the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, taking place from 31 October to 13 November 2026. The Games will welcome 2,700 of the world’s best young athletes, all aged under 17.

"Africa Welcomes, Dakar Celebrates"

With the motto "Africa welcomes, Dakar celebrates" setting the general Games-time vibe, the Senegalese capital will be home to aquatics, with the swimmers competing in superfast Myrtha Pools at the Tour de l'Oeuf venue, which will also be home to 3x3 basketball, baseball5, breaking, and skateboarding.