Ladies Makis win Madagascar's first Olympic medal
The Madagascar women's rugby sevens team secured the bronze medal at the JOJ Dakar 2026 by defeating the Czech Republic 26-10.
The Ladies Makis 7s team has won Madagascar's first-ever Olympic medal, securing bronze at the JOJ Dakar 2026. The Malagasy rugbywomen defeated the Czech Republic 26-10 in Dakar on Tuesday evening. This historic achievement marks the first time Madagascar has won a medal since its first Olympic participation in 1964 and the first time a Malagasy collective team has qualified for an Olympic competition.
The team's journey included three group stage victories against the United States, Spain, and the Czech Republic, followed by a 5-15 semi-final loss to Kenya. Coach Dina thanked God and supporters, stating the team exceeded expectations and encouraging the players to continue their studies. Player Safy expressed happiness despite the semi-final loss, highlighting the team's performance against taller opponents.
The Ladies Makis had previously trained in Tunisia for a week. Other Malagasy athletes competed in Dakar: judoka Bryan Minoharintsoa Tokiniaina finished 7th in the under-100kg category, and swimmer Océane Rakotonanahary placed 6th in her 100m breaststroke heat, with Tendry Rakotobe set to compete in the 50m butterfly.