Abu dhabi: The UAE Boxing Federation has announced that boxer Moaaz Wael Mohamed will compete at the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026, marking a significant milestone as he becomes the first Emirati boxer to represent the country at an Olympic event. Moaaz is set to compete in the 70 kg category, showcasing the UAE's growing presence in the sport on an international stage.
According to Emirates News Agency, Anas Nasser Al Otaiba, President of the UAE Boxing Federation, emphasized that Moaaz's selection is a landmark achievement for boxing in the UAE, highlighting the sport's development at a national level. He noted that participation in Dakar 2026 underscores the progress of the national programme and its increasing capability to produce athletes who can compete at the highest international level.
The Youth Olympic Games are considered a crucial platform for emerging athletes worldwide, and Moaaz's participation guarantees that the UAE will have representation in Olympic-style boxing at this level for the first time.