Dodger Stadium and Alamitos Beach have been selected as venues for the 2028 Olympics, marking a significant milestone in LA28’s venue plan. The organizing committee recently unveiled an updated venue plan, with nearly all event sites now revealed as the Games draw closer. This development comes after the International Olympic Committee approved the master plan, setting the stage for an exciting and diverse array of events across the city.
The Mayor of Los Angeles, Karen Bass, expressed enthusiasm for the plan, highlighting the city’s unique neighborhoods and attractions that will be showcased during the Games. From the Sepulveda Basin to the iconic shores of Venice Beach, the city’s rich tapestry of culture and entertainment will be on full display for athletes and spectators alike. The plan aims not only to deliver a world-class sporting experience but also to support local businesses, create jobs, and leave a lasting legacy of environmental and transportation improvements.
A Diverse Array of Venues in Three Major Hubs
In the heart of downtown Los Angeles, Dodger Stadium will be the home of baseball during the 2028 Olympics, adding to the city’s vibrant sports landscape. Boxing matches will take place at the Peacock Theater for preliminary rounds and at Crypto.com Arena for the finals, offering fans a thrilling showcase of talent and athleticism. The Lakers and Kings’ home venue will also host artistic gymnastics, underscoring the city’s commitment to providing top-tier facilities for Olympic events.
The Expo Park cluster at USC’s Galen Center will feature rhythmic gymnastics and badminton, adding to the diverse range of sports on display in Los Angeles. The Sepulveda Basin, another major Olympic hub, will host 3×3 basketball and modern pentathlon, further enriching the city’s sporting heritage. The inclusion of BMX and skateboarding at the recreation center underscores Los Angeles’ reputation as a hub for action sports and youth culture.
As LA28 CEO Reynold Hoover remarked, the venue plan is designed to deliver an unforgettable Olympic experience, leveraging the city’s unparalleled blend of sports, culture, and entertainment. Each venue has been carefully selected to provide athletes and fans with the best possible experience, ensuring that the 2028 Games will be a showcase of excellence and innovation.
New Sports and Historic Venues
The 2028 Olympics will feature five new sports, each with its own unique venue to showcase the diversity and inclusivity of the Games. Squash will make its Olympic debut at the Universal Studios lot, marking a historic moment for the sport. Cricket, returning to the Olympics for the first time since 1900, will be held at the fairgrounds in Pomona, offering fans a taste of traditional sportsmanship and camaraderie.
Softball, making its comeback to the Games after more than a decade, will be hosted at Oklahoma City’s Devon Park, a venue steeped in history and tradition. The addition of these sports underscores the Olympic spirit of unity and competition, bringing together athletes from around the world to celebrate their passion for sport.
Long Beach will play a prominent role in the 2028 Games, serving as the second-busiest venue city with 11 disciplines. The addition of beach volleyball at Alamitos Beach promises to be a highlight for fans, combining sun, sand, and athleticism in a picturesque setting. Despite initial plans to hold the event near Santa Monica’s pier, last-minute changes led to the selection of Alamitos Beach, showcasing the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of Olympic planning.
In conclusion, the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles will be a celebration of sport, culture, and community, bringing together athletes and fans from around the world. With a diverse array of venues, historic locations, and new sports on display, the Games promise to be a memorable and inspiring event for all involved. Stay tuned for more updates as the countdown to 2028 continues.
