The Organising Committee of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG) has unveiled “Ayo”, a young lion symbolising the energy and joy of Senegalese youth, as the official mascot of the Games. The unveiling ceremony took place at the Grand Théâtre in Dakar to mark exactly one year to the first Olympic event ever to be held on African soil.
The name Ayo means “joy” in Yoruba—a language widely spoken across West Africa—and reflects the Games’ themes of celebration, unity, and youthful enthusiasm. The mascot wears a traditional Fulani Tingandé hat, representing wisdom, dignity, and a deep connection to rural life. Ayo embodies the values of Dakar 2026, highlighting Senegal’s rich cultural heritage and commitment to youth empowerment.
The ceremony was attended by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal, IOC President Kirsty Coventry, Humphrey Kayange, Chair of the IOC Coordination Commission for Dakar 2026, and Mamadou D. Ndiaye, President of both the Dakar 2026 Organising Committee and the Senegalese Olympic Committee.
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Speaking at the event, IOC President Kirsty Coventry said:
“These Games represent so much for Africa; they will inspire the next generation and open doors of opportunity across our continent and beyond. Mascot Ayo carries a powerful message of joy and breaks many boundaries—a true symbol of how young and dynamic our continent is.”
The mascot was chosen through a nationwide competition organised by the Dakar 2026 Committee in collaboration with Senegal’s Ministry of National Education. Open to middle and secondary school students, the competition attracted more than 500 entries from all 16 academic regions, encouraging creativity and engagement among young Senegalese in the build-up to the historic Games.
As part of the “One Year to Go” celebrations, the official countdown clock will be unveiled later today at 6:30 p.m. local time in central Dakar by Worldwide Olympic Partner OMEGA.
Festivities will continue from November 4 to 9 with the fourth edition of “Dakar en Jeux”, a cultural and sports festival featuring community events across Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly. The festival will showcase local music, art, and sports activities while promoting the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect.
The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will take place from 31 October to 13 November 2026, featuring 2,700 young athletes aged up to 17 competing across three host cities—Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly.
