In brief
Prince Fahd bin Jalawi bin Abdulaziz bin Musaed represented Saudi Arabia at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games opening in Dakar, meeting Senegal’s president and IOC president Kirsty Coventry. He thanked Saudi leadership for its support of sports and highlighted the importance of athletes gaining Olympic experience. The ceremony showcased Senegal’s cultural heritage and brought together delegations from 94 countries.
Prince Fahd bin Jalawi bin Abdulaziz bin Musaed, Vice President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, attended the opening ceremony of the fourth Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, on 1 November 2026. The ceremony convened international leaders, athletes, and cultural performers to celebrate Olympic values and Senegal's heritage. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the event was held in Diamniadio at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium and welcomed delegations from 94 nations.
The opening sequence began with a flurry of fireworks, followed by the grand parade of national flags. Each delegation performed a concise traditional dance, showcasing the cultural diversity of the Games. The musical reel highlighted local Senegalese beats, with drummers echoing the rhythm of the historic Anoumou dance. The crowd’s enthusiasm helped set the tone for a spirited competition ahead.
Key dignitaries present at the ceremony included Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry. Their presence underscored the diplomatic significance of the Games, fostering relationships beyond sport. The gathering also welcomed numerous heads of state from around the world, marking a rare convergence of global leaders in the African capital.
In speaking to the crowd, Prince Fahd expressed gratitude to the Saudi leadership for its support of the sports sector and its efforts to boost the Kingdom's profile on the world stage. He highlighted that Saudi athletes’ presence at the Games would provide invaluable Olympic experience and help develop their competitive skills. He also extended wishes of success to all athletes competing in Dakar.
The Vice President noted that participation in the Youth Olympic Games is a strategic milestone for Saudi sports development. He emphasized that the event offers a platform for young athletes to test themselves against top international talent and to learn from the best in a culturally diverse setting. The experience, he said, will be essential for future senior Olympic competitions.
Officials from the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee also indicated that the Kingdom intends to broaden its sports investment. Plans include expanding training facilities and encouraging more athletes to compete on continental and international stages. The Youth Olympic Games were viewed as a stepping stone toward enhancing Saudi Arabia’s presence in future Olympic and Paralympic events.
Overall, the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar represented not only a celebration of sport but also a diplomatic bridge between Saudi Arabia and Senegal, along with the global community. Prince Fahd’s attendance and remarks underscored the importance of cultural exchange, athlete development, and sustained international cooperation through sport.
