Ethiopia Welcomes Home Dakar 2026 Young Champions with Heroic Reception Following Historic First-Place Finish in Athletics

Addis Ababa, November 14, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s triumphant young athletes have received a hero’s welcome at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport following their outstanding performance at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal, where they placed first in the athletics medal standings.

The Ethiopian delegation, comprising the medal-winning athletes, coaches and other team members, arrived home today to a warm reception celebrating their achievement and the distinction they brought to the country on the international sporting stage.

Ethiopia topped the athletics medal table with eight medals, including five gold and three silver, reaffirming the country’s strength in athletics and the promise of its emerging generation of sporting talent.

The country’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Akilu Tadesse, congratulated the young athletes, describing their achievement as a testament to perseverance, dedication and a winning spirit. He also expressed appreciation to the coaches and all those whose support and efforts contributed to the success.

The Minister noted that the achievement should inspire sustained efforts to nurture the next generation of athletes and carry forward the legacy of Ethiopia’s renowned sporting champions.

He highlighted the importance of strengthening sports academies, expanding training facilities and reinforcing sports associations to support the country’s continued success.

President of the Ethiopian Olympic Committee, Ashenafi Weldegiorgis, also described the achievement as a source of renewed hope and a significant milestone in reconnecting the public with Ethiopia’s golden era in athletics.

Beyond the medals, the young champions’ performance has once again demonstrated the role of sport in strengthening Ethiopia’s international standing and fostering friendship among peoples.

Their return was marked by a celebration of national pride, with the athletes sharing the joy of their achievement with the people who welcomed them home.