The official mascot of the Dakar 2026 YOG took part in Christmas Eve celebrations for children in several neighborhoods of the Senegalese capital.
The children's eyes lit up at the sight of AYO, the official mascot of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games. During the holiday season, the lion took part in several Christmas tree celebrations organized by the Dakar city councils of Point E and Ouakam, among others. At each appearance, the children's joy and excitement was shared by their parents.
Values to be shared
This young lion embodies the spirit of the Dakar 2026 YOG and the values of the Youth Games: friendship, respect, and excellence. These are the values that the young lion wishes to pass on to younger generations.
AYO was conceptualized and created by two young Senegalese students, Ndeye Mariama Diop for the design and Ndeye Khady Kristall Coumbassa for the name.
Reaching the youth
Since its unveiling to the general public on October 31, 2025, Ayo has made numerous appearances in public places, such as skate parks and the Dakar International Fair (FIDAK), to meet with young people.
The Dakar 2026 YOG are scheduled to take place from October 31 to November 13, 2026. This will be the first Olympic event to be held in Africa.
