Bangkok:The Thai youth national team is gearing up for the 4th Summer Youth Olympic Games, "Dakar 2026," set to take place from October 31 to November 13, 2026, in Dakar, Senegal. The event will feature 25 sports with a total of 153 gold medals at stake. Thailand has secured 28 qualifying spots across 11 sports, including Athletics, Badminton, Beach Handball, Beach Volleyball, Boxing, Judo, Rowing, Cycling, Windsurfing, Swimming, and Table Tennis.

According to Thai News Agency, the Thai national youth athletic team is scheduled to depart for Senegal in four groups via Turkish Airlines with a layover in Istanbul, Turkey. The first group, consisting of participants in table tennis, judo, beach volleyball, and rowing, will depart on October 27, 2026.

In windsurfing, the Windsurfing Association of Thailand, led by Secretary-General Mr. Phatthana Boonsawat, received two quota spots due to their alignment with the International Windsurfing Federation's criteria. However, some talented Thai athletes exceeded the age limit of 17 years and could not participate. Thus, two young athletes, Itthipol Yomjinda and Pornphawit Butte, both 14 years old, will represent Thailand under the guidance of coach Aran Homraruen.

In rowing, Thailand's Trairat Panthong and Thatchaphon Pangsawang, coached by Sornram Silpsorn, have secured spots in the sculls event. They recently earned a silver medal in the mixed double sculls under 19 event at the 2026 Asian Beach Rowing Championships. They aim to gain valuable experience and further develop their skills through this international competition.