Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games begin

The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games were officially launched this Saturday with a grand opening ceremony at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Diamniadio. Dozens of thousands of people gathered early to attend the historic event, which was marked by a strong sense of pride among attendees.

Pride in Senegal and Africa

Spectators expressed their pride in being Senegalese and in Africa hosting the event for the first time. One spectator said, "Honestly, it's a great pride. It's the first time we are hosting in Africa, and the honor is to Senegal. Really, it's a good thing. I am proud to be Senegalese at this moment." Another added, "We are really, really proud to welcome new countries to our country. We will show them our environment. It's really a pride to be Senegalese."

Senegal's commitment to hosting

Senegal is mobilizing around the organizers to demonstrate that Africa can host high-level competitions and mobilize its youth around such an Olympic event. The ceremony lasted more than three hours in a colorful atmosphere, with sound and lights captivating hundreds of young people. Athletes were carried triumphantly by an amazed public, who were moved by the grand spectacle.

Emotional and celebratory reactions

Emotional reactions were common among attendees. One spectator said, "I cried. There was a lot of emotion anyway. Honestly, it was magnificent. For us, for the first time in Africa, especially, bravo, respect. It's really a very beautiful moment to be Senegalese. We are proud. Proud. Banger, guys! It was extraordinary." Another spectator said, "I really loved it." When asked what she felt as a Senegalese, another spectator replied, "I feel pride. Pride to be African especially. Because the ceremony was really to our taste."

Looking ahead to the competitions

The wait was long, but it was worth it after this beautiful and rich opening ceremony. Now it's time for the field for these hundreds of young people who have come to Dakar to feed their Olympic dream.