DAKAR, Senegal — Social media personality Khaby Lame has been appointed an official ambassador for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, boosting global visibility for what will be the first Olympic event ever staged on African soil.
Organisers say the appointment signals growing momentum behind the Games, which are expected to draw worldwide attention to Senegal and elevate the continent’s sporting profile.
Lame joins a high-profile list of ambassadors that includes Omar Sy, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Eva Neymar, reflecting a strategic blend of sport, entertainment, and digital influence aimed at engaging younger audiences.
The influencer, who commands one of the largest followings globally, rose to fame during the COVID-19 pandemic through short, wordless comedy videos that resonated widely across platforms. His appeal among youth is expected to play a central role in promoting the Games ahead of 2026.
“This commitment reflects my desire to support young African talent, both in sport and beyond,” Lame said following his appointment. “Dakar 2026 will give our continent the opportunity to showcase the best of itself and inspire young people in Africa and around the world.”
He added that the event presents a chance to demonstrate Africa’s resilience and global potential, describing the Games as an opportunity to position the continent as “a force to be reckoned with.”
According to organisers, Lame will participate in key promotional activities, including the Youth Olympic Games Torch Tour across Senegal, while also supporting community engagement initiatives targeting young people—particularly in Mbacké, his birthplace.
The President of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee, Mamadou Diagna Ndiaye, said Lame’s involvement reflects the growing excitement surrounding the event.
“Khaby Lame’s involvement illustrates the incredible enthusiasm generated by this edition of the Games,” Ndiaye said. “Dakar 2026 is bringing together, inspiring and attracting talented individuals who want to help make this event a global success.”
The Games are being organised by the Dakar 2026 YOGOC in coordination with the International Olympic Committee and are scheduled to run from October 31 to November 13, 2026.
Approximately 2,700 athletes aged up to 17 are expected to compete across three host zones—Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly—in what is being framed as a landmark moment for African sport.
Beyond competition, organisers have positioned the Games as a platform for youth empowerment, cultural exchange, and long-term development, aligning with broader continental ambitions to expand opportunities for young people.
