Ryan FowlerApplications have opened for the next edition of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Young Reporters Programme, which will run during the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
Sixteen aspiring sports journalists from around the world will be selected to take part in the immersive training experience, gaining practical experience in a live Games environment.
The programme, first launched at the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in Singapore in 2010, has so far trained 126 participants from 68 countries.
Many alumni have since gone on to work at the Olympic Games or for major international media organisations, including broadcasters, news agencies and digital platforms.
A 2025 review by Dr Jessie Wilkie of the University of Canberra described the initiative as “a highly effective and supportive journalism training programme”, with 63% of alumni having worked at the Olympic Games and one-third working with the IOC in some capacity.
The updated 2026 format follows the review’s recommendations, introducing new elements focused on social media, digital storytelling and data-driven reporting, while retaining the core principles of intensive training and mentorship.
Under the guidance of experienced Olympic media professionals, participants will receive training across print journalism, broadcasting, photography and social media.
They will cover live events, press conferences and cultural activities, producing stories, photos and videos that will be published on the IOC’s platforms.
Guest speakers from leading global media organisations and the Olympic Movement will further enrich the programme, and participants will receive an official IOC Certificate of Participation. The most outstanding reporter will be recognised with the Steve Parry Award.
Young professionals aged 21 to 25 with backgrounds in journalism, broadcasting or photography are invited to apply via Olympics.com by 30th November 2025.
Successful applicants will be notified by the end of February 2026. In addition to the open application process, nominations will also be made by the organising committees of upcoming Olympic and Youth Olympic Games, including Dakar 2026, Dolomiti Valtellina 2028, Los Angeles 2028, French Alps 2030 and Brisbane 2032.
The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will take place over two weeks from 31st October across Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly, bringing together the world’s best young athletes aged up to 17.
