Dakar 2026 Unveils ‘Ayo’, A Mascot of Joy as One Year Countdown Begins
As Dakar 2026 marks exactly one year until the start of the Youth Olympic Games, organisers have revealed ‘Ayo’ — a vibrant young lion symbolising the energy and optimism of Senegalese youth. The mascot’s debut underscores the event’s focus on celebration, unity, and cultural pride.
Meaning “joy” in Yoruba, a widely spoken language across West Africa, Ayo embodies the exuberance and resilience of the region’s younger generation. Dressed in a traditional Fulani Tingandé hat, which signifies wisdom and dignity, Ayo also highlights Senegal’s rich cultural heritage and rural roots — core values at the heart of Dakar 2026.
The official unveiling took place during a special ceremony at Dakar’s Grand Théâtre, attended by distinguished guests including Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, IOC President Kirsty Coventry, IOC Coordination Commission Chair Humphrey Kayange, and Mamadou D. Ndiaye, President of the Dakar 2026 Organising Committee.
In her address, IOC President Kirsty Coventry expressed her enthusiasm: “These Games are a milestone for Africa; they will inspire a new generation and unlock opportunities across the continent. Ayo represents the spirit of joy and dynamism that defines the youth of Senegal and beyond. I look forward to celebrating with everyone in a year’s time.”
The mascot was chosen through a nationwide competition involving middle and secondary school students, with over 500 entries from across Senegal’s 16 academic regions. This initiative aimed to foster creativity among young people and deepen their connection to the Games, making Dakar 2026 the first Olympic event hosted on African soil.
In addition to the mascot reveal, organisers announced the upcoming launch of the official countdown clock, set to be unveiled later today at 6:30 p.m. local time in Dakar, courtesy of Worldwide Olympic Partner OMEGA.
The festivities continue in early November with the fourth edition of *Dakar en Jeux*, a vibrant cultural and sports festival running from 4 to 9 November across Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly. The event will unite local communities through sport, music, and visual arts, further promoting Olympic values and youth engagement in Senegal.
Dakar 2026’s Youth Olympic Games will take place from 31 October to 13 November 2026, featuring 2,700 young athletes up to 17 years old competing across three host cities: Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly.