Paris 2024 Olympic bronze medallist Lisa Barbelin has added another important chapter to her growing sporting journey after being selected as an Athlete Role Model for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
The programme, introduced during the inaugural Youth Olympics in Singapore in 2010, brings experienced Olympians and elite athletes together with young competitors to guide them both on and off the field of play.
Barbelin described the appointment as a huge honour and said she is excited to share her experiences with the next generation of athletes. She also expressed hope that her journey could help young competitors handle pressure and believe more strongly in themselves.
Inspiring the next generation
As part of her role, Barbelin will participate in workshops, mentoring sessions and educational activities during the Games in Dakar.
The French archer said she wants young athletes to trust themselves and stay patient through difficult moments in their careers. Her message to future Olympians was simple: believe in the process and remain kind to yourself while chasing success.
Athlete Role Models are considered a major part of the Youth Olympic movement because they help younger competitors navigate challenges beyond competition, including mental pressure, expectations and balancing sport with personal growth.
One of archery’s biggest modern stars
Barbelin has emerged as one of the leading names in international archery over the last few years. The 26-year-old represented France at both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games, winning an individual bronze medal on home soil in Paris.
She is also a former European champion and has earned multiple medals on the Archery World Cup circuit. In 2021, Barbelin briefly became the world No. 1 ranked women’s recurve archer.
Apart from her sporting achievements, Barbelin has also earned admiration for balancing elite-level competition with academics, pursuing chemistry studies at Sorbonne University in France.
Dakar 2026 set for historic Youth Olympics
The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will become the first Olympic event ever hosted on African soil, making it a landmark moment in Olympic history.
The event is expected to place strong emphasis on youth empowerment, cultural exchange and education alongside sporting competition. Athlete mentors like Barbelin are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the experience for young participants from across the world.
World Archery said Barbelin follows several notable archery Olympians who have previously served as Athlete Role Models at earlier Youth Olympic Games.
Beyond medals and rankings
For Barbelin, the new responsibility represents more than another title. It reflects her growing influence within global sport and her willingness to inspire athletes beyond archery itself.
As Dakar 2026 approaches, the French Olympian is now preparing not only to compete at the highest level but also to help shape the future of young sport globally.
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