Madagascar's Makis Ladies prepare for Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics

The Madagascar women's national rugby sevens team, known as the Makis Ladies, is intensifying preparations for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar. The twelve-player squad has been undergoing rigorous training at the Makis Stadium in Andohatapenaka, Antananarivo, following an international training camp in Tunisia organized under Olympic Solidarity.

Under the direction of coach Dina Razafindratsara, the team is focusing on technical fundamentals, including passing, tackling, and tactical decision-making under pressure. The selection process prioritized speed, technique, and game intelligence, resulting in a diverse group of athletes ranging from lifelong players to recent recruits.

Despite facing logistical and nutritional challenges, the team remains focused on their upcoming competition. In the group stages in Dakar, the Makis Ladies are scheduled to face teams from Spain, the United States, and the Czech Republic.