The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has appointed five additional Athlete Role Models for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, bringing the total to 41 sporting icons who will mentor young competitors.

Among the latest appointments are French sailing Olympic medallist Charline Picon, Australian swimming star Emma McKeon and Cuban wrestling legend Mijaín López, a five-time consecutive Olympic gold medallist.

The trio expressed enthusiasm about inspiring young athletes, sharing their experiences and promoting sport as a tool for personal growth, health and social development.

López also looks forward to visiting Africa for the first time and experiencing Senegal’s rich wrestling culture, describing Dakar 2026 as a unique opportunity to celebrate African sport.

The programme, developed in collaboration with International Federations, covers all 25 competitive sports and 10 showcase sports at the Games.

The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will run from October 31 to November 13 in Senegal, bringing together approximately 2,700 young athletes. The event will be the first Olympic sporting event staged on African soil.