ITTF has concluded a productive site visit to Dakar, Senegal, confirming excellent preparations for the table tennis competition at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games. The inspection, led by Mohamed Eldawlatly, ITTF Head of Events, reinforced confidence in what promises to be an outstanding tournament.
The table tennis competition will take place from 31 October to 5 November 2026 at the Dakar Expo Centre, positioned just 10 minutes from the Youth Olympic Village. This proximity provides a significant advantage for athletes, minimising travel time and maximising rest and preparation opportunities.
The short distance allows athletes to return to the village between sessions and maintain their regular routines—crucial factors for young competitors experiencing their first major international tournament.
ITTF is fully committed to the success of the first Olympic event on the African continent and will provide comprehensive technical support for the Dakar 2026 table tennis competition. A dedicated Technical Competition Team, comprising an ITTF Technical Delegate and Competition Manager from the federation’s professional staff, will ensure the highest standards of event management.
This support extends beyond competition operations, with ITTF Development activities playing a crucial role in the athletes’ qualification process. This is particularly significant for African players, many of whom are progressing through development programmes currently taking place across the continent, including talent identification events like the ongoing Africa Hopes Week & Challenge in Lagos.
The inspection team worked closely with organisers to maximise spectator capacity and enhance athlete facilities. Plans are advancing to optimise seating configurations whilst ensuring excellent viewing conditions and broadcast quality.
The venue’s flexibility allows for reconfiguration between competition phases, accommodating maximum participation in early rounds while creating intimate, arena-style environments for medal matches.
Special attention is being given to spectator experience, with plans to incorporate Senegalese cultural elements into competition presentation. Many spectators will be experiencing high-level table tennis for the first time, creating opportunities for innovative fan engagement.
The Youth Olympic Games’ emphasis on education and inspiration provides scope for creative presentation that honours both local traditions and Olympic values.
African Development Milestone
Dakar 2026 also represents a significant milestone for African table tennis development. Young players across the continent now have the inspiring prospect of competing in a Youth Olympic Games on home soil.
ITTF’s expanding development work across Africa creates clear pathways for emerging talents, with current Hopes programme participants potentially progressing to compete in Dakar. The timing aligns perfectly with the federation’s continental development strategy.
ITTF’s support for Dakar 2026 encompasses athlete development, technical expertise, and promoting table tennis growth across Africa and the global youth sports community. As the continent strengthens its table tennis infrastructure through expanding development programmes, the timing is ideal for this landmark event.
Preparations will now focus on finalising venue enhancements and operational procedures, ensuring the world’s best young table tennis players find a competition environment worthy of their talents when they arrive in Dakar.
The countdown to what promises to be a memorable tournament has begun.
