Social media personality Khaby Lame has been appointed an official ambassador for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG), as preparations intensify for what will be the first Olympic sporting event to be hosted in Africa.
The announcement adds to growing momentum around the Games, which are expected to draw global attention to Dakar and its surrounding host zones.
Lame’s appointment further expands a roster of high-profile ambassadors supporting the event, which already includes Omar Sy, Kalidou Koulibaly and Eva Neymar.
According to organisers, the mix of global figures from sport, entertainment and digital platforms reflects the widening appeal of the Dakar 2026 YOG beyond traditional sporting circles.
Lame is an Italian-Senegalese influencer followed by hundreds of millions of people across social media platforms. His rise to global prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic has been driven by short, silent comedy clips that have resonated widely with younger audiences.
Speaking after his appointment, Lame said, “This commitment reflects my desire to support young African talent, both in sport and beyond. Dakar 2026 will give our continent the opportunity to showcase the best of itself and inspire young people in Africa and around the world.”
“It is a chance to demonstrate that, as well as being resilient, Africa is a force to be reckoned with. I am proud to be Senegalese, proud to be African, and we will make this first Olympic event in Africa a resounding success,” Lame added.
Organisers said his large global following and strong appeal among youth will be central to efforts to promote the Games in the lead-up to 2026.
The digital creator is expected to take part in key promotional activities, including the Youth Olympic Games Torch Tour across Senegal.
His involvement also includes engagement aimed at strengthening the social and inclusive impact of Dakar 2026, particularly by helping connect with young people in various communities, including Mbacké, where he was born.
The President of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee (YOGOC), Mamadou Diagna Ndiaye, said Lame’s appointment reflects the growing excitement surrounding the event.
“Khaby Lame’s involvement illustrates the incredible enthusiasm generated by this edition of the Games,” he said.
“Dakar 2026 is bringing together, inspiring and attracting talented individuals who want to help make this event a global success.”
The Dakar 2026 YOGOC, working in coordination with the International Olympic Committee, is overseeing preparations for the Games, which are scheduled to take place from October 31, 2026, to November 13, 2026.
The event will bring together around 2,700 young athletes aged up to 17 from across the world.
The competitions will be staged across three main host zones: Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly.
Organisers have framed the Games as a major milestone for Senegal and the continent, positioning them as a platform for youth development, cultural exchange and sporting excellence.
As preparations continue, Lame’s appointment adds further visibility to an event that is being closely watched both within Africa and internationally.
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