Senegal have been named host of the 2022 Summer Youth Olympic Games.
It will be the first Olympic event in history to take place on the African continent.
Thomas Bach, the IOC President, said: “It is time for Africa – the home of many successful and prominent Olympic athletes. Africa is a continent of youth. That is why we want to take the Youth Olympic Games 2022 to Africa and to Senegal.
“They have offered a project based on a strong vision for youth and sport. There are many opportunities, and we will endeavour to deliver together, as part of a strong partnership, a visionary, responsible and inspiring Youth Games.”
Senegal’s application to host the tournament is said to be focused on three sites: Dakar; the capital, new city of Diamniadio; and the seaside resort of Saly.
The project is tied to the country’s general development strategy, a product of its government’s “Emerging Senegal’’ plan, which envisions major economic and infrastructure improvements.
One of the highlights of the seventh edition of the YOG will be the leading rugby sevens teams competing against each other.
Rugby sevens made its debut at the 2014 edition in Nanjing, and was one of 32 sports at the 2018 Games in Buenos Aires.
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