Los Angeles 2028 Olympics adds 5 new sports
The organising committee for the Los Angeles 2028 (LA28) Summer Olympics has successfully secured the inclusion of five new sports in the upcoming Games.
The International Olympic Committee's (IOC) Olympic Programme Commission reviewed the proposal and issued a recommendation that was accepted by the IOC Executive Board. The final approval came during the 141st IOC Session in Mumbai, India.
The approved sports are baseball-softball, cricket, flag football, lacrosse, and squash, adding a fresh and diverse lineup to the Olympic program.
“LA28’s proposed sports ignite the imagination on the field of play and drive culture off it. They’re relevant, innovative and community-based, played in backyards, schoolyards, community centres, stadiums and parks across the U.S. and the globe,” said LA28 Chairperson Casey Wasserman. Adding that, “they will bring new athletes to the Games, engage diverse fanbases and expand the Games’ presence in digital spaces, further amplifying LA28’s mission to deliver an unparalleled experience.”
“The choice of these five new sports is in line with the American sports culture and will showcase iconic American sports to the world while bringing international sports to the United States. These sports will make the Olympic Games LA28 unique. Their inclusion will allow the Olympic Movement to engage with new athlete and fan communities in the US and globally” said IOC President Thomas Bach.
Baseball and softball, which have been traditionally gender-specific in the Olympics, will return to the Games, with baseball for men and softball for women. These sports have a strong following, particularly in the Americas and East Asia, and their return is expected to resonate with fans globally.
Cricket, one of the world's most popular sports, particularly in countries like India, Australia, and the United Kingdom, has also been approved. Its inclusion is expected to draw a vast international audience, and further expand the global reach of the Olympics.
Flag football, a limited-contact version of American football, has also been added.
Lacrosse, known for its fast pace and physicality, also received approval, adding a historic and dynamic team sport to the mix.
Finally, there is squash, a high-speed racket sport played on a four-walled court.
