Deadline: November 30, 2025
Applications are open for the IOC Young Reporters Programme 2026. The IOC Young Reporters Programme is a long-standing initiative by the International Olympic Committee aimed at developing the next generation of sports journalists. It was first introduced at the inaugural Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Singapore in 2010 and since then it has been a successful feature of each YOG edition. The programme is run by IOC Media Operations.
For each edition the IOC Young Reporters Programme selects young professionals (aged 18 to 24 years old) from around the world and provides them with hands-on training and mentorship and equips them with the skills needed to cover major sporting events, including the Olympic Games. During the YOG all participants receive intensive training in sports journalism, including writing, photography, broadcasting and social media. The participants are mentored by leading professionals in the sports media industry. The course programme looks at what makes a good human interest story, how to produce news stories under tight deadlines, when to look for background detail and why accuracy and fairness remain the cornerstones of reporting.
Many of the past alumni have gone on to successful careers in sports journalism, broadcasting and media production. In addition, the programme fosters international collaboration, cultural exchange and Olympic values and leaves a powerful legacy in the host countries of the Games. Since its launch 125 IOC Young Reporters from 68 countries have taken part in the programme. The next edition will take place at the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar 2026 where a new cohort of talented young media professionals will have the opportunity to be in the front row of the first YOG held on the African continent.
Costs
- The IOC will cover the cost of economy airfares, all meals, twin-share accommodation and full tuition from experienced mentors and coaches. Participants will also receive a uniform from IOC.
Eligibility
Apply if you are:
- Aged between 21 and 25 at the time of the programme (born from 2001 to 2005).
- Proficient in English language.
- A student or a young professional in journalism/photography.
Application
Applicants are required to complete the following:
- CV (Resume)
- Motivation letter
- Copy of passport
- Certificate of Enrollment (only applicable to students)
- Two references letters with contact details of the referee (professional references only)
- Portfolio
- Proof of Published Work (only if applicable)
- Photo of applicant (the photo should be of the applicant only, not with a group)
All documents, except published work (for non-native English speakers previous work in English is a plus) should be submitted in English only (i.e. motivation letter, reference letter, etc.) Applicants missing the required documents will not be considered.
For more information, visit IOC Young Reporters Programme.
