Dakar 2026: Africa’s Moment and Breaking’s Next Chapter
A Year to Go: The Road to Dakar
The countdown to the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026 has begun, marking a historic milestone as Africa prepares to host its first-ever Olympic event. From 17 October to 16 November 2026, Senegal will welcome the world’s most promising young athletes, celebrating sport, culture, and education in a spirit of unity and innovation.
For the World DanceSport Federation (WDSF), Dakar 2026 represents far more than another competition. It is a key step in DanceSport’s continuing Olympic journey, from its thrilling debut in Paris 2024 to its future aspirations for Brisbane 2032. Breaking, with its rhythm, creativity and youthful energy, continues to redefine the Olympic movement, bridging cultures and generations through movement and music.
Empowering Youth: A Legacy Beyond the Games
Dakar 2026 is not only a celebration of sport; it’s a catalyst for youth empowerment and development across Africa. Through the Learning Academy, a pioneering programme by the Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee (YOGOC), young Senegalese between the ages of 21 and 35 are being trained and mentored to take on operational roles during the Games.
Half of the Games-time workforce will come from this initiative, ensuring that the event leaves a sustainable legacy for Senegal and the continent as a whole. It’s a model of local participation and skill-building that reflects the Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect, principles that resonate deeply with the ethos of DanceSport.
Preparing for Excellence: Operations and Experience
With less than a year to go, Dakar 2026 is finalising its operational framework to ensure a seamless and safe experience for all participants. From accreditation systems and arrivals and departures procedures to accommodation, food services and ticketing, every detail has been meticulously planned.
The accreditation process, opening in May 2026, will grant secure access to all eligible participants through the personalised Youth Olympic Accreditation Card (YOAC). Accommodation for International Federations and teams will be distributed across the three host cities, Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly, with over 5,000 hotel rooms secured at competitive rates.
Food and beverage operations will prioritise nutrition, sustainability and cultural diversity, offering menus inspired by Senegalese and international cuisines. This comprehensive plan reflects the organisers’ commitment to delivering Games that are both operationally efficient and culturally authentic.
Breaking into Africa: The WDSF’s Role
For the WDSF, Dakar 2026 symbolises another chapter in Breaking’s evolution as a youth-centred, artistic and global sport. After its dynamic showcase at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the discipline continues to inspire young dancers around the world, blending creativity with competition.
The Youth Olympic Games provide a perfect platform for breakers to represent their nations, share their styles, and connect with the global community. The WDSF, working closely with local organisers and federations, aims to make Dakar 2026 a celebration of African energy, diversity and rhythm, ensuring that every spin, freeze and beat tells a story of unity through movement.
Looking Ahead: A Shared Vision
As the world prepares to gather in Senegal, the excitement surrounding Dakar 2026 extends far beyond sport. It’s a collective journey towards inclusion, innovation, and empowerment, values that lie at the heart of both the Olympic Movement and DanceSport. As WDSF President, Shawn Tay, noted:
“What makes Dakar 2026 truly special is the collaboration it inspires. Working hand in hand with the IOC, organisers, and our National Member Bodies, we are shaping a model of partnership that will strengthen DanceSport’s place in the Olympic family.”
For the WDSF and the Breaking community, Dakar 2026 is more than a destination. It’s a moment to showcase how dance and sport together can inspire change, build bridges, and shape a brighter future for young people across the globe.
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