Hong Kong sends 15 athletes to 2026 Dakar Youth Olympics
Hong Kong's Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism addressed the flag-presentation ceremony for the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games. The delegation comprises 15 athletes competing in 12 sports. The government has increased competition subsidies to 100 per cent and supports dual academic and athlet
The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government addressed the flag-presentation ceremony for the 2026 Dakar Youth Olympic Games (YOG) Chinese Hong Kong delegation on 6 October. The ceremony marked the team's departure for the Games, which were postponed from 2022 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Chinese Hong Kong delegation comprises 15 athletes competing in 12 sports, including boxing, wushu and breaking, the Secretary said. In the previous two YOG editions in 2014 and 2018, the delegation won a total of 10 medals, a result he described as encouraging.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Secretary highlighted the spirit of sport beyond victory and medals. He cited the recently concluded Asian Games, where the Chinese Hong Kong contingent won 11 gold, 19 silver and 24 bronze medals, totalling 54 medals. He praised the athletes for fighting to the end against strong opponents, breaking personal bests and showing resilience and determination.
The Secretary noted the importance of senior athletes mentoring younger team members, ensuring the passing of the torch. He expressed particular joy at the YOG flag-presentation, saying he looked forward to seeing the young athletes at future Asian Games and Olympic Games.
To support young athletes balancing studies and training, the government, through the Hong Kong Sports Institute, has provided flexible academic arrangements in partnership with tertiary institutions and secondary schools. The government has also increased the competition subsidy under the Art and Sport Development Fund from 90 per cent to 100 per cent to encourage more overseas participation.
The Secretary thanked the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Sports Institute and various sports associations for their support. He expressed confidence that the athletes would showcase the determination, sportsmanship and fighting spirit of Hong Kong's youth at the Dakar YOG.
