A 26-year-old Spanish designer has claimed the spotlight in the world of sports design, as her artwork was selected for the medals of the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games (YOG).
“The Roar of Youth,” created by Pilar Barbadillo Vicario, will feature on the obverse of the medals awarded to the Games’ young athletes. The design was chosen from entries submitted by designers in 103 countries, reflecting the growing global interest in Dakar’s YOG edition.
At the heart of the medal is a lion, symbolizing strength, courage, and Senegal, the host nation. Its mane, formed by two symmetrical faces inspired by Senegalese art, represents fairness and respect in sports. Olive crowns on each face nod to Olympic heritage and the pursuit of excellence.
Explaining her vision, Barbadillo Vicario said: “When I was designing the medal, I was thinking about what you see when you already have it at home afterwards. It represents everything you’ve achieved over time – not only the moment you win it, but all the work behind it and what can motivate you in the future.”
The designer, currently pursuing a master’s degree in UX/UI design, described her reaction to winning as unforgettable. “Right now, I feel as if I had won one of those medals myself. Athletes express themselves through sport, and for me it’s art. Knowing that young athletes will wear a medal with my design is just incredible,” she said.
The medal selection was overseen by a distinguished jury including International Olympic Committee (IOC) members, past YOG medal designers, and athletes-turned-artists. The runner-up design, “The Sun of Values,” came from Greece, while India’s “The Celebration of Triumph” secured third place.
The reverse of the medal will be designed later by the Dakar 2026 Organising Committee, incorporating Senegalese cultural elements and the YOG emblem.
The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, scheduled for October 31 to November 13, 2026, will host 2,700 athletes under the age of 17 across Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly. The event promises to be a showcase not just for young sporting talent, but also for cultural exchange and design innovation.
