Social media star Khaby Lame has been appointed as an official ambassador for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, in a move aimed at boosting global engagement ahead of the historic event.
The announcement, made on 8 April 2026, marks another milestone as preparations intensify for the Games, which will be the first Olympic sporting event ever held on African soil. Lame joins a distinguished group of ambassadors including Omar Sy, Kalidou Koulibaly and Eva Neymar, highlighting the wide-ranging appeal of Dakar 2026 beyond sport.
Lame, who was officially appointed in Dakar on 26 March, said he was proud to be associated with what he described as a landmark moment for the continent. He noted that the Games would provide a platform to showcase Africa’s strengths while inspiring young people both locally and globally.
Rising to international fame during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lame has built a vast following through his simple and universally relatable content. His strong connection with younger audiences is expected to play a key role in promoting the vision and values of the Youth Olympic Games.
According to Mamadou Diagna Ndiaye, President of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee, Lame’s appointment reflects the growing enthusiasm surrounding the event. He said the Games are attracting influential figures committed to ensuring its global success.
As part of his role, Lame will actively promote the Games, particularly among young people. He is expected to participate in key activities such as the torch tour across Senegal and support initiatives aimed at enhancing the event’s social and inclusive impact. This includes encouraging participation from communities such as Mbacké, where he was born.
The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will take place from 31 October to 13 November 2026, bringing together around 2,700 athletes aged up to 17 from across the world. Events will be held across three host locations: Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly.
Organised by the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee in coordination with the International Olympic Committee, the Games aim to leave a lasting legacy for Senegal and the wider African continent, while celebrating youth, sport and Africa’s growing global influence.
