Coventry hails Dakar 2026 success, praises China's contribution to Youth Olympics

International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry has praised the organization and atmosphere of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, saying the first Olympic event held in Africa has exceeded expectations.

Coventry told Xinhua that the Games had been a source of pride for Senegal and the wider continent, with enthusiastic crowds and athletes embracing the occasion.

Zhao Xi of China (C) shoots during the women's preliminary round group A match of beach handball between China and Mexico at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Saly, south of Dakar, Senegal, Nov. 10, 2026. (Xinhua/Yang Guang)

"We're very proud that this is the first-ever Olympic event to be hosted on the continent," she said. "The athletes are having a lot of fun."

Coventry highlighted the event's reach across Africa, noting that every country on the continent had broadcast at least part of the opening ceremony live.

She said the widespread coverage reflected the enthusiasm surrounding Dakar 2026 and Senegal's determination to share the occasion with audiences across the continent.

The IOC president also praised the work of the Senegalese government, local organizers and venue staff, saying their efforts had helped deliver an event that surpassed expectations.

"The constant feedback that I keep receiving is that everyone is really just enjoying the spirit of these Games and the spirit of Africa," she said.

Having visited venues across the host areas, Coventry said she had been particularly struck by the enthusiasm of young spectators, including schoolchildren attending competitions.

She expressed hope that the Games would inspire a new generation of athletes in Senegal and across Africa.

Coventry also singled out wushu for praise after attending competitions in the sport, which is making its debut as an official medal event at the Youth Olympics.

"It was really beautiful, and you could see the strength and the power and the agility of the athletes all combined into one," she said.

Coventry said she had watched two wushu disciplines and spoken with officials to better understand the sport's judging system, describing the experience as wonderful.

The IOC president also acknowledged China's contribution to the Games, citing its provision of volunteer uniforms, technical expertise and support for the opening ceremony.

"China specifically really admires the Olympic Movement, and is always willing to step forward into helping to see the Olympic Movement succeed. We're very grateful for that," she said.

Beyond the sporting competition, Coventry emphasized the importance of the Youth Olympics in bringing together young people from different backgrounds.

She said athletes had opportunities to meet peers from around the world, exchange ideas, form friendships and experience different cultures, expressing hope that they would share those experiences with their communities after returning home.

Asked about Xinhua's coverage of the Olympic Movement, Coventry also highlighted the media's role in bringing athletes' stories to international audiences and promoting Olympic values.

"Sharing all the Olympic Movement stories and specifically here from Dakar, sharing the stories of young athletes" was one of the most important roles of the media, she said.