With the 2026 Youth Olympic Games underway in Senegal, beach handball is ready to join in the fun at Dakar 2026 when the men’s and women’s competitions start on Monday (9 November).

On the eve of the event, IHF.info spoke to IHF Beach Handball Working Group Chair, Giampiero Masi.

IHF.info: What is your message to everyone involved with Dakar 2026?
Masi: First of all, I would like to extend my warmest greetings to everyone who will be part of the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar. This is a very special occasion for beach handball and, above all, an extraordinary opportunity for young people to experience the Olympic spirit, perhaps for the first time in their lives.
 
I can only imagine the excitement and anticipation of the young athletes who are preparing to represent their countries on such an important international stage. For them, these Games will be much more than a sporting competition. They will represent the culmination of years of training, sacrifices, commitment and dreams. They will have the opportunity to compete internationally, meet young people from different cultures, make new friends and experience the unique atmosphere of an Olympic event.
 
I am equally aware of the emotions their coaches will experience. Behind every athlete there is a story of dedication, encouragement and hard work. Coaches have accompanied these young sportspeople throughout their development; sharing their challenges, successes and disappointments. 

Seeing them compete at Dakar 2026 will undoubtedly be a moment of great pride and satisfaction.
 
The same emotions will be shared by the national federations, National Olympic Committees (NOCs) and their representatives, whose commitment and support have made it possible for these young athletes to reach Dakar. Their participation is also recognition of the work carried out at national level to develop beach handball and create opportunities for the next generation.
 
A special thought also goes to our referees and delegates. Their professionalism, preparation and sense of responsibility will be essential in ensuring that the competition takes place at the highest standards. They, too, will be part of an unforgettable Olympic experience.
 
And, of course, we must not forget all the people working behind the scenes: the International Olympic Committee, the Dakar 2026 Organising Committee, the International Handball Federation, the technical and operational teams, and all the volunteers. Each one of them, regardless of their role, is contributing to the success of these Games. Their work, often away from the spotlight, is what makes an event of this magnitude possible.
 
IHF.info: Why is Dakar 2026 important for beach handball?
Masi: The Youth Olympic Games represent a fundamental opportunity to showcase not only the sporting qualities of Beach Handball but also its values and identity.
 
Beach handball is a dynamic, spectacular and attractive sport, but its greatest strength lies in the spirit in which it is played. It combines competition with respect, enthusiasm, creativity and fair play. These are values that are particularly important when working with young athletes, because sport is not only about winning medals or achieving results, it is also about education, personal development and learning how to respect others.
 
Dakar will provide a wonderful international stage on which young athletes can demonstrate what beach handball truly represents and it is my wish is that everyone will enjoy every single moment of this extraordinary experience.

IHF.info: What is your final message to the beach handball family at Dakar 2026?
Masi: To the athletes, I would say; ‘Give your very best, believe in yourselves, enjoy the competition and be proud of representing your countries. Remember that the memories and friendships you create in Dakar may remain with you for the rest of your lives’.
 
To the coaches, officials, referees, delegates, national federations, organisers and volunteers; ‘Thank you for your commitment, professionalism and passion. You are all an essential part of this experience’.
 
I sincerely hope that Dakar 2026 will be a fantastic event, full of unforgettable sporting moments, enthusiasm, friendship and mutual respect.
 
And above all, I would like everyone to remember our most important rule, the one that must guide us both on and off the court: Fair Play.
 
Let us compete with passion, celebrate with respect and demonstrate that sport has the power to bring people, cultures and nations together.

‘Compete with passion, celebrate with respect and always play fair. Because the greatest victory is not only winning a medal, but being part of an experience that brings us all together.’

I wish everyone a wonderful Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.