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Among the 25 sports on the official Dakar 2026 programme, these disciplines promise spectacular contests and high-level performances. From one-on-one bouts with a weapon to battles on the tatami or in the ring, each sport combines technique, precision, commitment and self-control.
Here are five combat and martial arts sports to discover at Dakar 2026.
Judo: keeping your balance at all costs
Judo is based on a fundamental principle: using an opponent’s strength and movement to gain the advantage. Judokas aim to throw their opponent or gain an advantage through control techniques.
The discipline requires strength, balance, precision and self-control. A bout can change in a matter of seconds.
At Dakar 2026, the judo competitions will take place at the Dakar Exhibition Center in Diamniadio from 1 to 3 November.
Wushu taolu: martial arts in motion
Wushu taolu features choreographed sequences of movements derived from Chinese martial arts. Athletes perform a routine combining techniques, footwork, jumps and acrobatic movements.
There is no direct opponent to face here. Performance is judged on the precision, fluidity, difficulty and quality of execution.
At Dakar 2026, wushu taolu will be held at the Dakar Exhibition Center in Diamniadio from 1 to 3 November.
Taekwondo: precision and control
Taekwondo is a Korean martial art that places particular emphasis on kicks, precision and speed of execution. In competition, athletes must score points while controlling their movements and attacks. The discipline requires both physical ability and technical and mental control.
At Dakar 2026, the taekwondo competitions will take place at the Complexe Iba Mar Diop from 8 to 12 November.
Fencing: precision, speed and strategy
In fencing, two athletes face each other in a duel with a bladed weapon, where every touch can make the difference. Depending on the weapon used -foil, épée or sabre – the rules and target areas vary. The discipline requires precision, speed, controlled movement and the ability to anticipate an opponent’s actions.
At Dakar 2026, the fencing competitions will take place at the Dakar Exhibition Center in Diamniadio from 8 to 13 November.
Boxing: power and strategy
In the ring, two boxers compete within a set of rules. To gain the upper hand, they must combine accurate punches, movement, defence and strategy. Power alone is not enough: boxers must also read their opponent, manage their effort and choose the right moment to attack.
The boxing competitions will take place at the Dakar Exhibition Center from 7 to 12 November.
Five disciplines, one goal: mastery
Taekwondo, fencing, judo, wushu taolu and boxing offer very different formats and sporting experiences. Yet they all rely on essential qualities: technique, precision, commitment, strategy and self-control.
At Dakar 2026, these five disciplines will add to the richness of a programme featuring 25 official competition sports, giving spectators the opportunity to discover different ways of practising and experiencing sport.
