Former FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samba Diouf Samoura joined a host of prominent personalities in the final relay of the Olympic Flame ahead of the official opening of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, marking a historic moment for Senegal and the African continent.
Samoura took part in the final escort of the Olympic Flame alongside international personalities, including social media star Khaby Lame, actor Omar Sy and wrestling champion Modou Lô, in a festive celebration in Dakar that brought together athletes, artists and members of the public.
The event symbolised Africa’s readiness to welcome the world as Senegal prepares to host the first Olympic event ever staged on African soil.
The Olympic Flame, which originated in Athens, travelled across Senegal for 47 days, covering more than 3,650 kilometres from Dakar to Ziguinchor before returning to the capital.
The national relay passed through nine major destinations, including Thiès, Saint-Louis, Matam, Kaolack, Tambacounda, Kédougou and Kolda, covering all 14 regions of the country.
Around 450 torchbearers participated in more than 30 relay stages, with each stop featuring sporting, cultural and educational activities designed to engage local communities and inspire young people.
A historic milestone for African sport
The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games represent a significant milestone for Africa, which had never previously hosted an Olympic event.
Senegal’s hosting of the competition marks the continent’s entry into a new chapter of the Olympic movement, placing African youth at the centre of a global sporting platform.
Approximately 2,700 athletes are expected to compete in around 20 sporting disciplines, showcasing emerging talent from across the world.
Under the motto, “Africa welcomes, Dakar celebrates”, the Games are expected to strengthen Africa’s position in international sport while providing opportunities to promote youth development, cultural exchange and sporting excellence.
Samoura’s contribution to global sport
A Senegalese national, Samoura brings extensive international experience spanning humanitarian development and sports administration.
Before joining FIFA, she spent more than two decades working with the United Nations across several continents, focusing on humanitarian affairs and development.
In 2016, she made history when she was appointed FIFA Secretary General, becoming the first woman and first African to occupy the position.
During her tenure, which ended in 2023, she oversaw key administrative operations and contributed to the organisation of several FIFA World Cups. She also supported football development initiatives, particularly women’s football, and efforts to modernise sports governance.
Samoura currently serves as a member of the FIA Senate and sits on several boards, including Seed Project and African Collaborations Group (ACG).
Her participation in the final Olympic Flame relay highlighted the contribution of African leaders to global sport and the growing ambition to expand opportunities for young people across the continent.
“To carry the flame is to carry a dream, and to pass it on is to pass on its energy,” Samoura said.
Dakar 2026 officially opens
The final relay preceded the official opening ceremony of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games on October 31 at the Abdoulaye Wade Stadium in Diamniadio.
The ceremony was attended by Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry, Dakar 2026 Organising Committee President Mamadou Diagna Ndiaye and sports ministers from across Africa.
The Games mark a historic first for the continent, positioning Senegal as a focal point for international sporting cooperation and reinforcing the role of African youth in shaping the future of global sport.
