A major milestone for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games took place on Thursday, as the symbolic flame was lit in Athens, Greece. Soon after, the first torchbearers began passing on the famous torch, which will officially be handed over to the organizing committee of the Youth Olympic Games. This committee will then transport the flame back to Senegal, where the games will be held. The event took place at the Panathenaic Stadium, a historic venue that was the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Known for its white marble construction, the stadium is not only a ceremonial landmark but will soon return to its primary purpose as a sports venue. In preparation for this revival, the Greek Olympic Committee has undertaken significant restoration and modernization efforts at the Panathenaic Stadium. A new athletics track has been installed, meeting international standards set by World Athletics. This upgrade aims to ensure the stadium can host top-tier competitions. The committee has also cleaned the marble surfaces and installed a new lighting system, enhancing both the functionality and visual appeal of the venue. "A modern and improved competition surface, worthy of its history and international reputation," the committee stated. Isidoros Kouvelos, president of the Greek Olympic Committee, highlighted the importance of these efforts. He noted that the restoration of the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held, will allow it to host a Diamond League athletics meeting in 2027. Kouvelos emphasized the need to preserve Greece's heritage while modernizing its sports facilities. "The preservation of our heritage must remain an absolute priority," he said. "Through these works, the Greek Olympic Committee reaffirms its ongoing commitment to protect, modernize and promote this unique stadium." Similar efforts have been underway at the Athens Olympic Pool since April, as part of a broader initiative to modernize Greece's sports infrastructure. Once left unused for many years, the pool is undergoing a complete renovation. It is expected to be completed in the spring of 2027 and will then be available for national swimming and water polo teams. Kouvelos expressed pride in the progress made so far, noting that the challenge of restoring major Olympic facilities like the Panathenaic Stadium, Schinias rowing center, and the Athens Olympic Pool is becoming a reality. He added that future plans include creating modern accommodation for athletes at the Olympic Stadium. With these developments, Greece may soon emerge as a strong contender both as a host and in the race for Olympic medals.