French-Senegalese actor Omar Sy has been named ambassador of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, the International Olympic Committee said.
Sy’s appointment adds global visibility to the Games, which will be the first Olympic event held in Africa, taking place in Senegal from Oct. 31 to Nov. 13, 2026.
The Youth Olympic Games are expected to bring together about 2,700 athletes under the age of 18 from around the world to compete in 35 sports across Dakar, Saly and Diamniadio.
Organizers said Sy’s profile and personal ties to Senegal made him a natural choice for the role.
Born in France to a Senegalese father, the 47-year-old actor has maintained close links to the country and has frequently highlighted its cultural and social importance in his work and public engagements.
Sy rose to international prominence with the 2011 film The Intouchables and later gained a global audience through the Netflix series Lupin.
His involvement in Dakar 2026 builds on a broader public role that has increasingly extended beyond cinema.
“I am proud and honored to be an ambassador for the Youth Olympic Games that will take place in 2026 in Senegal,” Sy said, citing values of sharing, solidarity and intercultural exchange.
The actor has been active in youth-focused social causes and has maintained a visible presence in sport.
He is a co-owner of Paris Basketball and attended several events during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, including the opening of the judo competition.
Senegal was awarded the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in 2018, positioning the event as a milestone for African sport and international youth competition.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) said Sy will help promote the Games’ sporting, educational and cultural dimensions as preparations continue.
