China sends 66 athletes to Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games

China on Tuesday announced a 66-athlete squad for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, with the team set to compete in 49 events across 21 sports at the Games in Senegal from Oct. 31 to Nov. 13.

Photo taken on May 17, 2026 shows an external view of Abdoulaye Wade Stadium, which will host archery event during the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, in Diamniadio, Senegal. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei)

The 121-member delegation includes 16 male and 50 female athletes, who will compete in sports including athletics, swimming and table tennis.

"We are now 11 days away from the opening of the Games. We need to believe in ourselves and be determined to do our best. I hope all the athletes will stay calm, keep a positive mindset and show their best in competition," said Zhang Jiasheng, China's chef de mission and deputy director-general of the General Administration of Sport of China.

"I'm really excited and grateful for this opportunity to represent my country. My goal is to win the title, and I also hope to connect with athletes from other countries and regions," said table tennis player Yao Ruixuan.

Dakar 2026, the fourth edition of the Summer Youth Olympic Games, will bring together around 2,700 athletes competing in 25 sports. The event will be held in Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly, marking the first Olympic event to take place on African soil.