By Yunus S Saliu
Khaby Lame has been named an official ambassador for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG), as preparations build for the first Olympic sporting event to be hosted in Africa.
The Italian-Senegalese social media star joins a distinguished group of ambassadors, including Omar Sy, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Eva Neymar, highlighting the international appeal and broad engagement generated by the Games.
Speaking at his official appointment in Dakar, Lame said:
“This commitment reflects my desire to support young African talent, both in sport and beyond. Dakar 2026 will showcase the best of our continent and inspire young people across Africa and the world. I am proud to be Senegalese and African, and we will make this first Olympic event in Africa a resounding success.”
Lame, who rose to global fame during the COVID-19 pandemic for his simple and universally accessible content, brings a vast following and strong connection with young audiences, providing a powerful platform to promote the values and vision of Dakar 2026.
Mamadou Diagna Ndiaye, President of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee (YOGOC), highlighted Lame’s appointment as part of the Games’ wider engagement strategy:
“Khaby Lame’s involvement reflects the incredible enthusiasm generated by this edition of the Games. Dakar 2026 is bringing together and inspiring talented individuals to ensure this event is a global success.”
As ambassador, Lame will play an active role in promoting the Games, including participating in key moments such as the YOG Torch Tour across Senegal, and helping to enhance the social and inclusive impact of the event, particularly in communities like Mbacké, his birthplace.
This partnership underlines Dakar 2026’s commitment to engaging influential voices worldwide and reinforces its ambition to make the YOG a universal celebration of youth, sport, and Africa’s potential.
About Dakar 2026
The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will be held from 31 October to 13 November 2026, bringing together approximately 2,700 athletes aged up to 17 from across the globe. Competitions will take place across three host zones: Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly.
The Dakar 2026 YOGOC, in coordination with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), is organising the Games to leave a lasting legacy for Senegal and Africa as a whole.