Ambekar Meetei has created history by winning India’s first-ever boxing gold medal at the Youth Olympic Games 2026 in Dakar, Senegal. The 17-year-old boxer from Manipur, Lairenlakpam Ambekar Meetei, defeated Ireland’s Kristian Jubani by 3–2 in the men’s 50kg final on 12 November 2026. His victory marked an important achievement for Indian boxing and brought international recognition to the young athlete from Northeast India.

The victory was also special for India because it was the country’s first gold medal in boxing at the Youth Olympic Games. On the same day, another Indian boxer, Gunjan, won gold in the women’s 48kg category, giving India a memorable double victory.

Ambekar Meetei Creates History at Dakar 2026

Ambekar Meetei delivered an impressive performance in the men’s 50kg boxing final. He faced Kristian Jubani of Ireland in a closely contested match.

The Indian boxer had a difficult start and lost the first round on all five judges’ scorecards. However, he did not lose confidence. He improved his performance in the next two rounds and managed to turn the match in his favour.

The judges awarded him a 3–2 victory, helping him secure the gold medal for India.

His ability to recover after losing the opening round showed his fighting spirit, determination and mental strength. Winning a major international final at the age of 17 is an important achievement in his sporting career.

Journey to the Youth Olympics Boxing Final

Ambekar Meetei displayed strong performances throughout the competition before reaching the final.

In the quarter-final, he faced Namibia’s Abraham Kalenga and secured victory through a first-round stoppage. This impressive performance helped him move into the semi-finals.

In the semi-final, he competed against Colombia’s Izzon Jeffrey Galea Arevalo. Ambekar Meetei dominated the contest and won by a unanimous 5–0 decision.

His victories in the quarter-final and semi-final gave him the opportunity to compete for the gold medal. He then defeated Ireland’s Kristian Jubani in the final to become India’s first Youth Olympic boxing gold medallist.

Gunjan Also Wins Gold for India

India celebrated another major success in boxing at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games when Gunjan won the women’s 48kg gold medal.

She defeated Algeria’s Bouthaina Bensalah by a 5–0 decision in the final. Her performance was impressive, as all five judges supported her victory.

The gold medals won by Ambekar Meetei and Gunjan were India’s first gold medals at the Dakar 2026 Games.

Their achievements highlighted the growing strength of Indian boxing, particularly among young athletes. Both victories also demonstrated the importance of training, discipline and determination in international sports.

India’s Medal Performance at Dakar 2026

India finished its campaign at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games with a total of 10 medals.

The country’s medal tally included two gold, three silver and five bronze medals. The two boxing gold medals played an important role in India’s performance at the international sporting event.

The results reflected the hard work of Indian athletes and their preparation for competing against talented young sportspersons from different countries.

The Youth Olympic Games provide an important platform for young athletes to gain international experience and develop their skills before entering senior-level competitions.

Ambekar Meetei’s Training and Preparation

Ambekar Meetei belongs to Manipur, a state in Northeast India that has produced several talented athletes and international boxers.

He trains at the Army Sports Institute in Pune, Maharashtra. The institute provides specialised sports training and facilities to help athletes improve their performance in different disciplines.

Before the Youth Olympic Games, he also prepared for the competition at the National Institute of Sports (NIS), Patiala.

His training included improving boxing techniques, physical fitness, speed, strength and match strategy. Competing at the international level requires regular practice and the ability to handle pressure during important matches.

His success at Dakar is a major achievement for Manipur and adds another name to the list of talented sportspersons from Northeast India.

India’s Earlier Achievements in Youth Olympic Boxing

Before Ambekar Meetei’s historic victory, India had achieved success in boxing at earlier editions of the Youth Olympic Games, but had not won a gold medal in the sport.

At the 2010 Youth Olympic Games, Indian boxer Shiva Thapa won a silver medal, while Vikas Krishan secured a bronze medal.

These achievements helped bring attention to India’s young boxing talent. Ambekar Meetei’s gold medal in 2026 has taken Indian youth boxing to a new level.

His victory is also expected to encourage young boxers from Manipur and other parts of India to participate in national and international competitions.

What Are the Youth Olympic Games?

The Youth Olympic Games are an international multi-sport event organised under the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The competition provides young athletes with opportunities to represent their countries and compete at the international level.

The event combines sports competitions with educational and cultural activities. It aims to promote friendship, respect, teamwork and the Olympic values among young participants.

The Games are designed for young athletes in different age groups, with eligibility rules depending on the sport and competition.

The Dakar 2026 event provided a major platform for emerging athletes from around the world. India’s success in boxing, particularly the historic gold medals won by Ambekar Meetei and Gunjan, made the competition memorable for Indian sports fans.