In a moment of global significance, Los Angeles has officially assumed its role as the host city for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, marking the start of a new era in sports history. The momentous occasion was celebrated during the closing ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics, where Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass proudly received the Olympic flag from Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo. This symbolic handover solidifies Los Angeles as a global sports capital. It sets the stage for what promises to be a spectacular decade of sporting events leading up to the LA28 Games.

The Road to LA28: A Decade of Unmatched Sporting Events

As Los Angeles embarks on the journey toward the LA28 Games, the city’s position as a world-class sports destination is further reinforced. Adam Burke, President and CEO of the Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board, joined Mayor Bass in Paris to witness the historic flag handover and gain insights into the economic and tourism impacts that the Games will bring to the City of Angels. “We’re honored to join Mayor Karen Bass to commemorate the historic handover of the Olympic flag from Paris to Los Angeles,” said Burke. “We can’t wait to roll out the red carpet for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games where LA will become the third city in history – and first in the U.S. – to host the Games a record three times.”

LA Memorial Coliseum.

Los Angeles is no stranger to hosting world-class events. The city will host the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the NBA All-Star Game, and the U.S. Women’s Open Championship, followed by Super Bowl LXI in 2027. These events are not just highlighted on the global sports calendar but are part of a broader strategy to elevate Los Angeles as the premier sports destination in the world. With 11 professional sports teams—the most of any U.S. city—and some of the most iconic sports and entertainment venues globally, Los Angeles is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience for sports fans worldwide.

Sustainability and Innovation at the Heart of LA28

The LA28 Games will showcase sustainability and innovation, utilizing existing world-class venues across the city. The plan includes hosting the largest swimming venue in Olympic history at SoFi Stadium, with a seating capacity 38,000. The iconic LA Memorial Coliseum, recently refurbished, will make history as the only stadium to host Track and Field competitions in three Olympic Games. In a nod to the city’s rich Olympic heritage, the same pool hosting Aquatics events in the 1932 Olympic Games will again be the stage for diving competitions. The new Intuit Dome arena, set to open this month, will host basketball events. At the same time, the San Fernando Valley will debut as an Olympic venue with BMX, skateboarding, and archery competitions.

The Economic Impact: A Surge in Sports Tourism

Inglewood Arena.

Sports tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global tourism industry, accounting for 10% of the world’s tourism expenditure and boasting an estimated growth rate of 17.5%, according to the United Nations World Tourism Organization. Los Angeles, already a diverse and inclusive destination, is set to benefit from this surge as it continues attracting visitors worldwide. The LA28 Games are expected to significantly boost tourism, drawing millions of spectators and sports enthusiasts eager to experience the city’s rich sporting culture.

To capitalize on this, Los Angeles Tourism has developed a series of sports-themed itineraries, offering visitors curated experiences highlighting the city’s top sports attractions and dining options for sports fans. These itineraries are part of a broader effort to enhance the visitor experience and showcase Los Angeles as a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts.

A Bright Future for Los Angeles

As the countdown to LA28 begins, Los Angeles is ready to take centre stage in the world of sports. The city’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and world-class hospitality will not only make the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games a historic event. Still, it will also reinforce Los Angeles’ status as a global leader in sports tourism. With the world watching, LA is poised to deliver an unforgettable decade of sports, culture, and entertainment that will leave a lasting legacy for generations.

For more information on LA28 and to explore the city’s sports itineraries, visit LA28.org.

Written by: Jason Smith

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