The Changes Coming for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics

As the world turns its eyes towards Los Angeles in anticipation of the 2028 Summer Olympics, the city is gearing up for a transformative event that promises to leave a lasting legacy. With a mix of returning sports, emerging competitions, and groundbreaking initiatives, LA28 aims to redefine the Olympic experience, not just for athletes and spectators, but for the city itself.

Sports Additions and Innovations

One of the most exciting changes for the 2028 Games is the introduction of new sports that reflect the diverse and evolving interests of global audiences. LA28 will see the addition of flag football, squash, lacrosse, baseball, softball, and cricket to its roster, expanding the scope of the competition and attracting fans from different corners of the world.

These additions not only highlight the global appeal of these sports but also underscore the inclusivity and adaptability of the Olympics. For instance, the inclusion of cricket—particularly T20 cricket—acknowledges the sport’s massive following in countries like India, Australia, and England. Similarly, flag football's introduction taps into the growing popularity of American football internationally, offering a more accessible and less contact-heavy version of the game.

Revolutionising Transportation: The ‘No-Car’ Olympics

Los Angeles is known for its car culture and infamous traffic, but for LA28, city officials are pushing for a groundbreaking shift—a "no-car" Olympics. Mayor Karen Bass, inspired by similar efforts in Paris for the 2024 Games, has set a bold vision to significantly reduce car usage during the Olympics.

Key initiatives include:

- Buses and Public Transportation: Over 3,000 buses will be deployed to shuttle spectators, athletes, and officials across the city. These buses will be supplemented by temporary satellite parking lots and upgraded public transportation systems, including improvements to the LA Metro and Los Angeles International Airport.

- Workforce Adjustments: Businesses will be encouraged to adopt remote working, staggered shifts, and other flexible work arrangements to minimise traffic congestion, leveraging lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.

This ambitious plan is not just about easing traffic but also about setting a precedent for sustainable urban mobility in one of the world’s most car-dependent cities.

Returning Classics and Enhanced Venues

In addition to the new sports, LA28 will bring back Olympic classics like basketball, football, tennis, golf, and combat sports. Basketball, with Los Angeles being home to iconic NBA teams like the Lakers and Clippers, is expected to be a major draw. Football will also take centre stage, with the city’s diverse population and football culture fuelling excitement.

Existing venues, such as the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, will be refurbished, while new state-of-the-art facilities will be introduced. The Olympics will also leverage the city's modern stadiums like SoFi Stadium and Dodger Stadium, ensuring that both athletes and spectators experience world-class environments.

Focus on Women’s Sports and Emerging Competitions

LA28 is poised to be a landmark event for women’s sports. The increased focus on gender equality will see more events and opportunities for female athletes across all disciplines. Additionally, emerging sports, which are rapidly gaining popularity, will be showcased, offering a platform for new athletic talent and expanding the Olympics' appeal to younger audiences.

Economic Impact and Sustainability

The economic impact of LA28 is projected to be substantial, with billions expected in revenue from tourism, ticket sales, and sponsorships. The organising committee aims to surpass the record of 9.5 million tickets sold for Paris 2024 by leveraging the new sports and the city’s appeal as a global entertainment hub.

Moreover, sustainability will be a cornerstone of LA28. The “no-car” initiative is part of a broader commitment to reducing the environmental footprint of the Games. The use of existing infrastructure, coupled with green building practices for any new developments, will ensure that the event aligns with global sustainability goals.

Private Equity and Tech in LA28

The LA28 Games are also attracting significant interest from private equity and technology sectors. Investments are flowing into areas like stadiums and real estate, media rights, and tech innovations designed to enhance the spectator experience. Whether through advancements in streaming services or the integration of data analytics to improve athlete performance and fan engagement, technology will play a critical role in shaping the future of the Olympics.

Conclusion

The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics are set to be a milestone in Olympic history, not only for the sports on display but for the broader societal and environmental goals they aim to achieve. From new sports to a revolutionary approach to transportation and a strong emphasis on sustainability, LA28 will be a showcase of innovation, inclusivity, and the power of sports to drive change. As the world looks to Los Angeles, the city is ready to shine on the global stage once again.