# Senegalese Surfers Seek Olympic Recognition at Dakar 2026 Despite exclusion from official competition, local youth showcase talent during Youth Olympic Games. - **Source:** [RFI – Afrique](https://www.rfi.fr/fr/afrique) - **Published:** 2026-11-04 - **Topic:** [sports](https://brifing.si/c/sports) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/0174b58a-49cc-4f88-9bb2-c661a99c1cc3 ## Surf excluded from competition Although the Youth Olympic Games are currently taking place in Dakar, surfing is not among the twenty-five official medal disciplines. This exclusion represents a missed opportunity for young Senegalese athletes to compete on home waters. The sport is only present as an engagement activity rather than a formal contest for medals. ## Ngor remains historic hub The bay of Ngor serves as the iconic backdrop for this demonstration, famously featured in the 1966 film The Endless Summer. René Pierre Laraise, technical director of the Senegalese federation, notes that surfing has been practiced here for decades. The location remains a vital training ground for the nation's rising surf stars. ## Youth aspirations meet reality Young surfers like sixteen-year-old Assane Guèye and fifteen-year-old Mame Seydi Mbengue dream of professional careers inspired by international idols like Gabriel Medina. However, they face significant hurdles, including a lack of proper equipment, limited sponsorship, and the absence of formal competitive platforms. These barriers hinder their ability to challenge global champions effectively. ## Educational and social trade-offs Tidiane Ndour, a former professional footballer, observes that the intense passion for surfing leads some children to neglect their schooling. Despite the lack of wetsuits during colder months, these young athletes train daily on two-meter waves. Providing better resources is essential to creating a sustainable path toward international success for them. ## Democratization of the sport Local observers like Marc, a sculptor residing in Ngor, note a significant shift in public perception regarding surfing. Previously hesitant parents now recognize potential career opportunities for their children. The success of role models like nine-time national champion Chérif Fall has been instrumental in inspiring the next generation of local talent. ## Missed medal opportunities Chérif Fall and other experts argue that the exclusion of surfing denies Senegal a genuine chance at securing medals. Local athletes possess an intimate knowledge of the Ngor waves that could have provided a competitive edge. The current demonstration format fails to offer the rigorous testing needed for genuine athletic development. ## Infrastructure and support needs René Pierre Laraise emphasizes that surfing is no longer a niche activity in Senegal, yet it still lacks the institutional support afforded to football or wrestling. With increased government engagement and better funding, the federation believes it could consistently produce world-class champions. Current efforts remain focused on specific coastal spots. ## Future of Senegalese surfing The Dakar 2026 games highlight the growing divide between local athletic potential and available resources. While the demonstration serves to show the world how Africa surfs, the long-term goal remains professional integration. Without structural changes, the immense talent of young Senegalese surfers risks remaining confined to their local coastal breaks. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.rfi.fr/fr/sports/20261104-joj-dakar-2026-les-jeunes-surfeurs-s%C3%A9n%C3%A9galais-ne-veulent-pas-rester-dans-le-creux-de-la-vague-et-r%C3%AAvent-d-olympisme — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._