Los Angeles 2028 Olympics: What Will Be Different In LA Compared To Paris 2024 And Previous Olympic Events?

The 2028 Summer Olympics will be hosted in Los Angeles, following the conclusion of the Paris Games. This event will introduce new sports like flag football, squash, and obstacle racing.

These additions were chosen by LA organizers to reflect the growth of American football globally and to diversify the Olympic sports lineup. Several sports also make their return during the next Olympics. Here is all you need to know about Los Angeles 2028 Olympics:

New Sports and Returning Classics

Squash will join tennis and badminton as racket sports in the Olympics. However, its inclusion in future Games is not guaranteed. Lacrosse, absent since 1908, will return in a six-a-side format. Cricket, last played in 1900, will also make a comeback in the T20 format, which is shorter and more engaging for viewers.

Baseball and softball are set to return as well. Softball games will be held in Oklahoma City, known for hosting the Women's College World Series. Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred has shown willingness to allow Major League Baseball players to participate, though insurance issues for high-value players need resolution.

Changes in Traditional Sports

Equestrian events are being replaced due to an incident of horse abuse during the Tokyo Olympics in 2019. Obstacle racing will take its place to make the sport more accessible and relatable. These changes aim to modernize the Olympic experience while addressing past concerns.

The Los Angeles Olympics will start two weeks earlier than Paris, with an opening ceremony on July 14. Unlike Paris's river parade, LA will use two stadiums: SoFi Stadium and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Track and field events will be held at the Coliseum, while swimming events will be moved up a week at SoFi Stadium.

A Unique Olympic Experience

The Los Angeles Games aim to create a distinct atmosphere compared to Paris. The focus will be on innovation and technology, highlighting LA's status as a creative hub for music and fashion. Road events like marathons and cycling will celebrate Hollywood's 20th-century mythology.

Los Angeles organizers are enthusiastic about these new sports and believe they will attract significant attention from countries like India and Pakistan. The inclusion of cricket is particularly anticipated to draw large audiences from these regions.

In summary, Los Angeles plans to offer a unique Olympic experience that reflects its cultural heritage while embracing new sports and technological advancements. This approach aims to set it apart from previous host cities like Paris.