Although the Los Angeles Olympics are still three years away, there are still plenty of headlines surrounding the event that deserve some early attention. From standout venues to athletes poised to make headlines and countries ready to make an impact, there’s a lot to look forward to at the 2028 Games.
The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, officially known as LA28, will mark the third time Los Angeles has hosted the Summer Olympics: once in 1932 and again in 1984. This time, the city is pulling out all the stops to make it memorable.
LA28 is shaping up to showcase both established legends and rising stars. Simone Biles, whose name has become synonymous with excellence in gymnastics, may or may not compete in 2028.
“I’m really enjoying my time off before I decide if I want to go back to the gym and compete,” Biles revealed during the Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony. “A lot of people think it’s just a one-year commitment but it truly is the four years leading up to the Olympics. It’s in LA […], which is so exciting. But if I’m going to compete again, I’m not so sure. But I will be at the Olympics, whether it’s on the floor or in the stands.”
If Biles participates, her performances would further solidify her status as the greatest gymnast of all time.
Swimmer Caeleb Dressel, the reigning king of the pool, will undoubtedly aim to defend his titles in freestyle and butterfly events, despite facing fierce competition from international rivals.
“At a disciplinary level, I’m having fun with the sport, seeing how far I can push myself physically as well as mentally,” the 27-year-old, seven-time Olympic champion said on the Olympics.com podcast. “I get my own lane, see how far I can push myself […] and I’ve been enjoying it this year. It’s been a really, really fun year for me.”
Meanwhile, upcoming talents like Erriyon Knighton, who broke Usain Bolt’s junior records in sprinting, represent the next generation of track-and-field superstars eager to leave their mark. Tennis phenom Iga Świątek, currently ranked world No. 1 in women’s singles, will likely enter LA28 at the peak of her career, seeking to add an Olympic gold medal to her growing list of accomplishments. Similarly, Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra, whose Tokyo 2020 victory made him a national hero, will look to build on his historic win and inspire millions back home. Each of these athletes embodies the determination and passion that define the Olympic spirit, promising moments of triumph and inspiration throughout the Games.
On the global stage, certain countries are expected to dominate the medal standings, driven by robust training programs and deep talent pools. The United States, as the host nation, holds a distinct advantage across multiple disciplines, particularly in swimming, track and field, gymnastics and basketball. China, renowned for its systematic approach to athlete development, will continue to excel in gymnastics, diving, table tennis, badminton and shooting. Japan, fresh off the success of hosting Tokyo 2020, will remain competitive in judo, karate, wrestling, baseball and softball. Other traditional powerhouses such as Great Britain, Australia, Kenya and Ethiopia will also vie for top honors, drawing on their respective strengths in cycling, swimming, long-distance running and team sports.
One of the most compelling aspects of LA28 is the selection of venues, each chosen not only for functionality but also for its ability to capture the spirit of Los Angeles.
“Los Angeles is the epicenter of sports, culture and entertainment, and every venue selected for the 2028 Games will provide athletes and fans the best possible experience,” LA28 Chief Executive Officer Reynold Hoover said. “The 2028 Olympic venue plan invites communities from across the region to celebrate the Games coming to their backyard with the most exciting sports staged at some of the world’s top-tier existing stadiums and arenas, famous beaches and purpose-built temporary structures.”
At the heart of the Games will be SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., which will host both the opening and closing ceremonies. This state-of-the-art facility, home to the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers, boasts cutting-edge technology and a capacity to hold over 70,000 spectators, ensuring a grand spectacle to kick off and conclude the event. Nearby, the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum will once again take center stage as the primary athletics stadium. Having hosted track-and-field events during the 1932 and 1984 Games, the Coliseum’s inclusion underscores LA’s commitment to honoring its Olympic legacy while embracing modernity through recent renovations.
Beyond these marquee venues, Los Angeles is leveraging its diverse geography and cultural landmarks to create unique settings for various competitions. Long Beach Arena and Alamitos Beach will serve as hubs for aquatic and beach sports, including swimming, diving and beach volleyball, offering competitors and fans stunning waterfront views. Meanwhile, the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, Calif., a venue steeped in sporting history, will provide the perfect backdrop for the men’s and women’s soccer finals. These venues collectively highlight LA’s ability to fuse sport with its vibrant urban landscape, creating an unforgettable experience for both athletes and fans.
As athletes prepare to push boundaries and nations rally behind their representatives, the anticipation surrounding LA28 continues to grow. Whether it’s witnessing the final chapter of a legendary career, cheering on a rising star or marveling at the collective efforts of a united global community, the 2028 Olympics promises to deliver stories that resonate long after the closing ceremony concludes. For now, the countdown continues and the world waits with bated breath for the curtain to rise on what could be one of the most memorable Olympic Games in history.
