The 2028 Summer Olympics, also known as the Games of the XXXIV Olympiad and commonly known as Los Angeles 2028 or LA28, will take place in July 2028, in Los Angeles, United States. The city of California is the sole candidate for the organization of these Games, which are officially awarded to it on 13 September 2017 at the 131st session of the International Olympic Committee in Lima (Peru).
The Olympic Games have always been more than just a sporting competition. They serve as a reflection of the times, showcasing cultures, technologies, and visions for the future. As the 2028 edition approaches, Los Angeles, known for its innovation and artistic flair, is poised to redefine what it means to host the Games. From introducing new sports to implementing state-of-the-art technology and a revolutionary visual identity, Los Angeles 2028 promises to be a historic turning point in Olympic history.
Sporting innovation: introduction of new disciplines
One of the most striking announcements for these Games is the inclusion of new disciplines, marking a step towards greater diversity in sports. Among the newly introduced sports, flag football, cricket, squash, baseball/softball, and lacrosse are generating significant buzz.
- Flag Football makes its debut as a thrilling sport, popularized by the NFL in the United States and gaining traction internationally. A non-contact version of American football where players aim to remove a flag attached to the opponent's waist instead of tackling them to stop the play. It's seen as a more accessible version of American football, with less physical contact, making it particularly appealing to a broader audience.
- Cricket, a sport beloved in many nations, especially in South Asia, Australia, and Great Britain, returns to the Olympic stage after more than a century. A team sport where players score runs by hitting a ball with a bat while defending a set of stumps, popular in countries like England, India, and Australia. Its inclusion reflects the globalization of the Games and the desire to engage billions of fans worldwide.
- Squash and Lacrosse also join the roster, each bringing its own dynamics and fanbase. Their presence at the Olympics could pave the way for broader recognition and global expansion. Squash is a racket sport played by two or four players in a walled court, where they hit a small rubber ball against the walls, trying to prevent it from bouncing twice before being returned. Lacrosse is a fast-paced sport where players use a stick with a net to catch, carry, and throw a ball into the opposing team's goal, originating from the Indigenous peoples of North America.
These new sports are not merely an extension of the Olympic program; they represent a conscious effort to diversify and modernize the Games, attracting younger and more international audiences (eurosport) (Sport & Société).
Infrastructure and technology: connected and sustainable games
Los Angeles, a city synonymous with technology and innovation, couldn’t host the Olympic Games without injecting a significant dose of high-tech and sustainable development. Rather than constructing new, costly stadiums or Olympic villages, Los Angeles is leveraging its existing infrastructure while integrating cutting-edge technological advancements.
One of the most ambitious projects is the "Dugout Loop", an underground tunnel system proposed by Elon Musk, designed to transport spectators quickly and efficiently between Olympic venues. If realized, this project would not only be a technical marvel but also a demonstration of Los Angeles' commitment to eco-friendly Games, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation (Sport & Société).
Additionally, Los Angeles plans to use advanced technologies to enhance the experience for both spectators and athletes, including augmented reality, real-time tracking apps, and intelligent transportation solutions. These initiatives show a clear intention to make the 2028 Olympics not just a sporting event but a showcase of modern technology.
Visual identity and communication: a step toward modernity
The visual identity of the 2028 Games perfectly reflects Los Angeles’ spirit of innovation. Unlike the static and symbolic logos of previous editions, Los Angeles has opted for a unique approach: a dynamic logo with an interchangeable "A" that can take on various forms and colors depending on the interpretations and personalities that reinterpret it.
This idea was developed in collaboration with dozens of American figures from sports, design, and show business. The result is a visual identity that is not just a symbol but a constantly evolving movement. This choice highlights Los Angeles' cultural diversity and creativity while sending a strong message about inclusivity and the adaptability of the host city (Sport & Société).
Moreover, this approach modernizes the image of the Olympic Games, aligning them more closely with the expectations of newer generations who seek originality and relevance in global events.
Los Angeles 2028, a model for the future ?
By combining the introduction of new sports, the intelligent use of technology, and a revolutionary visual identity, Los Angeles 2028 is shaping up to be an Olympic edition that does not merely follow traditions but seeks to reinvent them. This bold vision could very well set a new standard for future Olympic Games, emphasizing the importance of innovation, sustainability, and cultural diversity.
Los Angeles is preparing to welcome the world with an event that promises to exceed all expectations, offering a modern and unforgettable Olympic experience. The 2028 Olympics will not just be a celebration of sport but a true projection into the future of the Olympic Games.
Conclusion
These Olympic Games in Los Angeles will not just mark a return to the United States; they will represent a new era for the Olympic movement, where modernity, inclusivity, and innovation take center stage.
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