Designer medals for Youth Olympic Games 2026

The Spanish designer of the medals at the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026 has been a special guest in Senegal.

Also thrilled at seeing her designs come to life.

Pilar Barbadillo Vicario watched athletes winning medals on the opening days of action in Senegal. She also met Ecuadorian swimmer Elvira Espinosa, the very first gold medallist of Dakar 2026.

Pilar’s design got the seal of approval from International Olympic Committee (IOC) President, Kirsty Coventry.

Main feature of the medal is a Lion. Pilar said this was to represent Senegal and Africa. But also to highlight the courage of athletes who are so young and train endlessly to reach competition level.