Lausanne, Switzerland, April 20, 2026: The International Olympic Committee has announced the first group of Athlete Role Models (ARM) for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, marking an important step in preparations for the first Olympic sporting event to be held on the African continent.
The initial list comprises 31 Athlete Role Models, including multiple Olympic champions and medallists.
The Athlete Role Models will provide mentoring and workshop training to young athletes on site during Dakar 2026.
In collaboration with the International Federations, experienced Olympians from the 25 competition sports and 10 engagement sports on the Dakar 2026 programme have been selected as Athlete Role Models. They include:
*Lai Xiaoxiao (CHN, wushu)
*Ayako Rokkaku (JPN, baseball5, baseball/softball)
*Zheng Siwei (CHN, badminton)
Rokkaku told the World Baseball Softball Confederation: "I have experienced both success and challenges throughout my career and I want to share those experiences with the next generation.
"As both a player and a coach in Baseball and Baseball5, I have learned the importance of teamwork, resilience and enjoying the game. I believe I can inspire young athletes not only through my achievements but also through my journey and mindset.”
Born in 1991, Rokkaku sits on the WBSC Executive Board as an Athlete Representative. She is a four-time Women's Baseball World Cup winner and a two-time Baseball5 World Cup silver medallist. She earned MVP honours at the Women's Baseball World Cup and the Baseball5 World Cup.
"I am extremely excited and honoured to be part of Dakar 2026 as an Athlete Role Model," she added.
"This is a special opportunity to connect with young athletes from around the world, share experiences and learn from each other. I am really looking forward to being part of such an inspiring and meaningful event.
“This opportunity means a lot to me, both as an athlete and as a person. The Olympic Movement has always inspired me, and being able to contribute as an Athlete Role Model is truly meaningful. It is also a chance for me to grow, give back to the sport and help create a positive impact on young athletes' lives."
The YOG will be held in Dakar, Senegal from October 31 to November 13.