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As the first African country to host the Youth Olympic Games in 2026, Senegal will be a showcase for the world and a reflection of the entire continent. This first edition of the Games on the continent will see the creation of the first African Olympic mascot. Since the 1968 Winter Games, each edition of the Games (Summer and Winter) has had an official mascot symbolising the spirit of the modern Olympic Games.
“From the past to the Future”, a story to be written around a collective imagination.
The official mascot will have to promote Dakar 2026 and honour Senegal's history, while inspiring young people to write the next chapter.
It will have to convey values and unite an entire country, indeed an entire continent.
It should reflect the unity and cohesion of all Senegalese people, and solidarity.
It should not only show Senegal's deep-rooted values, but also a country opened to fraternity, solidarity and modernity.
“From the past to the Future” is more than just a theme, it is a reality experienced daily by the Senegalese people. By honouring its past and actively building its future, Senegal continues to show the world, the power of its heritage and the unlimited potential of its youth.
The artwork may be inspired by a real (except for human beings) or imaginary being. The artwork must be entirely original and not repeat or be based on one or more existing works. It must be created by an individual alone, without the help of third parties, computer tools and/or artificial intelligence.
It may be dressed up in an outfit or costume (disguise).
It must not be linked in any way to commercial brands or signs, nor with political, religious, ethnic, sexist or discriminatory ideologies that promote violence and/or hatred and must not bear any representative sign thereof.
It must include the emblem of Dakar 2026 in a visible and legible manner.
The official mascot name should ideally be two syllables, or at most three.
It must be easy for everyone to pronounce and have a meaning that is accessible to as many people as possible.
The name should be evocative of the mascot and the values it represents.
The competition is free and open to all Senegalese middle and high school pupils, provided that the schools have taken the necessary steps to register.
