Team Malta Shines at Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games with Two Historic Finals

Team Malta has concluded its participation at the fourth Summer Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, held between 31 October and 13 November 2026, with five athletes representing the country across three sporting disciplines.

The Games marked a historic occasion as the first Olympic event staged on the African continent.

Swimmer Sam Camilleri produced a standout performance, becoming the first Maltese swimmer to reach a Youth Olympic final, finishing sixth in the 200m butterfly despite the cancellation of his preferred 800m freestyle event.

In athletics, Matthew Azzopardi qualified for the 800m final after finishing fifth in his heat, eventually placing seventh overall. Nick Bonett finished sixth in his 400m semi-final.

Fellow swimmer Yulya Anne Bonnici competed in three freestyle events, while artistic gymnast Janet Galea placed 31st in the all-around competition, recording 44.965 points.

Camilleri and Bonnici also proudly carried Malta’s flag during the Opening Ceremony.

Maltese Olympic Committee Director of Sport Charlene Attard praised the athletes’ performances, highlighting the importance of continued investment in youth development.

The participation represented another encouraging step for Maltese sport, providing valuable international experience and strengthening the country’s ambitions for future Olympic competitions.

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