Youth Olympic Games Thirteen Russian athletes take part in the Games as the country seeks a wider return to international sport.
Russian athletes are competing at the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, marking another step in the country’s efforts to return to international sports.
A total of 13 Russian athletes are taking part in nine events, including swimming, judo and skateboarding.
Russian swimmer Serafima Fokina won the women’s 100-metre butterfly event on the opening day of the competition. Russia’s national anthem was also played during the medal ceremony.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) suspended the Russian Olympic Committee in 2023 following its recognition of Olympic councils in Russian-occupied areas of Ukraine.
However, the IOC later encouraged sports federations to allow young Russian athletes to compete without restrictions.
According to Reuters, the Dakar Games are providing an opportunity to assess Russia’s possible wider return to international sporting competitions.
