The Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026 have secured their most high-profile ambassador yet. Khaby Lame, the Italian-Senegalese content creator followed by hundreds of millions of people worldwide, was officially appointed on 26 March in the Senegalese capital, joining Omar Sy, Kalidou Koulibaly and Eva Neymar in championing Africa’s first Olympic sporting event.
“This commitment reflects my desire to support young African talent, in sport and well beyond. Dakar 2026 will give our continent the opportunity to reveal the best of itself and to inspire youth in Africa and around the world. This is a chance to demonstrate that beyond its resilience, Africa is also a force. I am proud to be Senegalese, proud to be African, and we will make this first Olympic event in Africa a total success.” Lame said at the announcement, underlining a personal connection to a Games that will make history as the first Olympic sporting event held on the African continent.
His appointment deepens an ambassador roster that spans global culture and sport. Organisers say the convergence of talent reflects engagement with Dakar 2026 well beyond the traditional sporting world.