The Olympics Come to Los Angeles in 2028: Here's Everything to Know So Far

Los Angeles is gearing up to host the Olympic Games once again in 2028, marking the third time the city has welcomed the world’s greatest sporting event. As preparations ramp up, excitement builds around the new sports, innovative infrastructure plans, and the challenges the city faces to accommodate such a massive event. Here's a breakdown of everything you need to know about the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

New Sports Making Their Debut

The 2028 Games will be historic for several reasons, particularly in the realm of sports. For the first time, flag football and squash will be included in the Olympic program. These sports, previously considered niche or regional, will now have the opportunity to shine on the global stage, showcasing talent and competition from across the world. American Football has seen significant international growth over the past decade and this could mark a further international boom if the event goes over well.

In addition to these debuts, the 2028 Olympics will see the return of baseball and softball, sports that have deep roots in American culture and have grown into global games with standout talent across the planet. After being absent since 2008, these sports will undoubtedly draw significant attention, especially from local fans. Moreover, cricket,  one of the most popular sports on the planet, will finally make a comeback for the first time since 1900, introducing the game to a wider audience. Lacrosse, another sport with historical significance, will return for the first time since 1908, bringing a touch of nostalgia and excitement for fans of this fast-paced game.

Innovative Venue Use: SoFi Stadium’s Dual Role

One of the standout features of the 2028 Olympics will be the use of SoFi Stadium, an iconic venue in Inglewood. This state-of-the-art stadium will serve a dual purpose, hosting both the opening ceremonies and swimming events. This decision has led to a unique scheduling change: for the first time, the athletics events, traditionally held in the second week of the Games, will be moved to the first week. This allows time for the stadium to be reconfigured, uncovering the pool for swimming competitions during the second week.

The logistical feat of transforming SoFi Stadium from a track and field arena into an Olympic pool highlights the innovative approach Los Angeles is taking to make the 2028 Games both memorable and efficient.

Transportation: A ‘No-Car Games’ Vision

L.A. Mayor Karen Bass has set an ambitious goal for the 2028 Olympics: to make it a “no-car Games.” In a city known for its heavy reliance on automobiles and notorious traffic, this vision is bold and challenging. The plan includes deploying a fleet of 3,000 buses to transport athletes, officials, and spectators, alongside encouraging residents to work from home during the event to reduce traffic congestion.

However, the city faces significant challenges in realizing this vision. Unlike Paris, which has been praised for its extensive and accessible public transportation system, Los Angeles has a more limited network, with only two subway lines and a bus and light rail system that lags behind those of other major metropolitan cities like New York and London. To address this, the city is pushing forward the "Twenty-eight by '28" initiative, an effort launched by former Mayor Eric Garcetti. This initiative aims to complete 28 transit infrastructure projects before the start of the Games, accelerating existing plans and introducing new ones to improve the city’s transportation capabilities.

Sustainability and Legacy

The Los Angeles 2028 Olympics are being planned with a strong emphasis on sustainability and leaving a lasting legacy. The city is committed to utilizing existing venues and infrastructure wherever possible to minimize environmental impact and reduce costs. This approach aligns with the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Agenda 2020, which encourages host cities to focus on sustainability and legacy in their planning.

The Twenty-eight by '28 initiative also plays a crucial role in this legacy, aiming not only to improve transportation for the Games but also to leave a lasting impact on the city’s infrastructure, benefiting residents long after the Olympic flame has been extinguished.

As the countdown to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics continues, the city is preparing to showcase its innovation, creativity, and resilience. With new sports, cutting-edge venues, and ambitious transportation plans, the 2028 Games promise to be a unique and memorable event that will leave a lasting legacy for Los Angeles and its residents. The challenges are significant, but the opportunities for the city to shine on the world stage are even greater.