Two-time Olympic marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge believes the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games could be a defining moment for African sport.According to Kipchoge, hosting the global event will change perceptions about the continent’s ability to stage major international competitions.Download our Mozzart Sport app for more newsKipchoge, who serves as a global ambassador for the Games, described Dakar 2026 as a landmark occasion for Africa as Senegal prepares to host the continent’s first-ever Olympic event.##NAJAVA_MECA_10085138##The opening ceremony took place on Saturday, 31 October, marking the beginning of a historic edition of the Youth Olympics that has brought together young athletes from across the world.Speaking ahead of the competition, the two-time Olympic marathon champion said that allowing Africa to host an Olympic event would leave a lasting impression on young people and the wider public.“Dakar 2026 is a real, real, real big event on our young continent. Giving Africa the chance to host the Youth Olympic Games will change the mindset of Africans. It will stay in the minds of the young people and the general public for a very long time,” Kipchoge told Olympics.com.He believes the successful hosting of the Games will demonstrate that Africa has the capacity, infrastructure, expertise, and hospitality required to stage major sporting events.“It will show that we can do it. We can host the Olympic Games, the World Championships, the Commonwealth Games, and any other major sporting event in the world. We have huge energy; we have the knowledge to run the Games. We have a good space and good temperature for people to enjoy. We are hospitable as Africans,” he added.Matasi eyes game against Arsenal greats ahead of Harambee Stars legends clashBeyond his ambassadorial responsibilities, Kipchoge will also serve as a mentor to the Refugee Olympic Team.The marathon great, who has enjoyed a distinguished career spanning 24 years, said the appointment was an opportunity to give back to sport and help shape its future.“I was really happy when I was invited and got a call that I would be the Global Ambassador. I've been in sport for 24 years; it's my time to give back to the next generation,” he said.Kipchoge revealed that he intends to interact with athletes from all 207 participating teams, taking time to shake hands, engage with them, and share his experiences.“I will make sure I meet every team out of 207 teams who will be participating there, shake their hands, talk to them, and try to mentor them and see how the future of the world as far as sport is concerned looks like,” he said.##NAJAVA_MECA_10077634##He described the Youth Olympics as an ideal platform to connect with young athletes, celebrate African sports, and inspire participants from different countries.“These Youth Olympics are the best thing for me to go there, participate in, mentor people, talk to people, be proud, and celebrate with other African countries. Africa is a young and energetic continent,” he added.Away from the sporting action, Kipchoge is also looking forward to experiencing Senegalese culture and hospitality, particularly the opportunity to see West African traditions blend with cultures from other parts of the world.He expressed excitement about exploring Senegal's cuisine, tourist attractions, and way of life, while also looking forward to meeting President Bassirou Diomaye Faye.“What excites me is seeing West African and Senegalese culture mix with cultures from around the world. It will be a great opportunity for people to discover and appreciate the diversity of cultures across the globe. I am looking forward to anything, actually. Food, tourist places, what has been happening in Senegal, and how Senegalese are doing. I am looking forward to seeing how the young president in Africa is doing,” he said.Why South Africa-based Kenyan striker is backing Harambee Stars to shock Bafana BafanaAs the Games provide a platform for emerging athletes to showcase their abilities on the global stage, Kipchoge urged young people to embrace discipline, seize opportunities, and remain committed to their sporting ambitions.His message to young athletes?“Discipline is the key. And above all, you young people, it's time to fight for the space. And this space actually is happening in Dakar. Let us fight for the space; try to actually show your talent. Prove it, fight with all your sweat and blood, and remember, enjoy the sport,” he concluded.