LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND – The LA28 Organising Committee presented a comprehensive update on its preparations for the Olympic Games in Los Angeles to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board here on June 26, 2025. The session highlighted significant progress across key operational pillars, underscoring the growing momentum behind the United States’ return to hosting the Summer Games.
The update was delivered by Casey Wasserman, Chairperson and President of the LA28 Organising Committee, and Reynold Hoover, Chief Executive. Their presentation covered essential areas including operations, security planning, public engagement initiatives, and commercial developments, providing a detailed picture of the organisational advancements made since the bid phase.
Prioritising Security and Seamless Entry
A paramount focus of the update was security, identified as a top priority for the Games. LA28 officials detailed the extensive coordination efforts underway among local, State, and Federal agencies across the United States. This multi-layered approach aims to ensure a safe and secure environment for athletes, spectators, and participants from around the globe.
Furthermore, the briefing highlighted collaborative work between the Organising Committee, the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), and officials from the US Administration. A specific point of emphasis was a crucial “unity of effort” initiative. This joint endeavour between LA28, the USOPC, and the State Department is designed to streamline the process for entry into the country for accredited Games participants, facilitating smooth and efficient arrivals necessary for a successful international event.
Engaging Communities and Building Legacy
Beyond operational readiness, the LA28 committee also reported substantial progress on its engagement and legacy programmes. A standout example is the PlayLA youth sports initiative. Supported by a significant USD 160 million agreement between the IOC and LA28, the programme has achieved remarkable success, exceeding 900,000 enrolments to date. This initiative is fundamental to LA28’s commitment to delivering a lasting positive impact on the community through increased access to sports for young people.
Engagement efforts also extend nationally. Casey Wasserman recently addressed the US Conference of Mayors, where he outlined preliminary plans for the Olympic Torch Relay. The ambitious vision includes the torch visiting all 50 states across the nation, aiming to connect communities nationwide with the spirit of the Olympic Games and build anticipation leading up to 2028.
Advancing Commercial Strategy
The update also touched upon commercial developments. While specific details were not disclosed, the inclusion of this topic underscores the ongoing efforts by the Organising Committee to secure the necessary partnerships and financial resources required to deliver the Games. Successful commercial programmes are vital for funding operations and ensuring the sustainability of the event.
Key Milestones on the Horizon
The LA28 presentation looked ahead, signaling several significant announcements expected later this year. These upcoming milestones are crucial for refining the Games’ operational blueprint and engaging stakeholders.
Anticipated announcements include the release of the full competition schedule, providing clarity on when and where specific sports events will take place. Additionally, the committee plans to unveil the chosen football host cities across the United States, integrating the sport more broadly into the national landscape of the Games.
Crucially, LA28 is also set to release its Games Impact and Sustainability Strategy. This document will detail the committee’s plans for minimising the environmental footprint of the event and maximising its positive social and economic impact on Los Angeles and beyond, aligning with the Olympic movement’s commitment to sustainability.
Context and Collaboration
The update to the IOC Executive Board follows a recent IOC Coordination Commission meeting held in Los Angeles. These regular interactions between the Organising Committee and the IOC oversight bodies are essential for ensuring alignment, sharing progress, addressing challenges, and maintaining momentum on the path to 2028. The consistent engagement demonstrates the collaborative spirit driving the preparations.
The comprehensive briefing in Lausanne reaffirmed that the LA28 Organising Committee is making substantial headway in its preparations. With critical planning areas advancing and key partnerships strengthening, the path towards hosting the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028 continues to build positive momentum on both local and national fronts.
