The upcoming Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028 marks a historic moment in the event’s long-standing tradition, as the opening ceremony will be held across two legendary stadiums for the first time. The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and SoFi Stadium have been selected as the venues for this momentous occasion, which is scheduled to commence on July 14, 2028. This decision not only reflects the innovative spirit of Los Angeles but also pays homage to the city’s deep-rooted historical connection with the Olympic Games.
The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum is particularly noteworthy, as it will attain the remarkable distinction of being the first venue to host events at three separate Olympic Games, having previously served in 1932 and 1984. This iconic amphitheater is not just a historical treasure; it is also the cherished home of the USC Trojans college football team. In contrast, SoFi Stadium, which opened its doors in September 2020, is a state-of-the-art facility that accommodates two major NFL teams—the Los Angeles Rams and the Los Angeles Chargers. Recently, SoFi Stadium made headlines when it hosted the highly publicized Super Bowl in 2022, and it has also been designated as a venue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
LA28 chair Casey Wasserman expressed his enthusiasm about the dual-venue opening ceremony, highlighting how this unique approach will shine a spotlight on Los Angeles’ rich sporting heritage and its progressive path into the future. Wasserman remarked, “The venues selected for the 2028 opening and closing ceremonies will highlight Los Angeles’ rich sporting history and cutting-edge future, showcasing the very best that LA has to offer on the world stage.” His vision encapsulates the blend of history and modernity that defines Los Angeles as a cultural epicenter.
The ceremonies are set to provide an unprecedented and unforgettable experience for athletes, spectators, and fans worldwide, making it a groundbreaking moment in Olympic history. Wasserman continued, saying that these two extraordinary locations would welcome fans from around the globe to an Olympic and Paralympic Games unlike any other, cementing its status as one of the most remarkable editions of the Games.
This year’s Olympic ceremony in Paris witnessed an innovative shift as the event was held outside of traditional stadium confines for the first time. Athletes from 10,500 participating delegations battled the elements and floated down the Seine River in boats, creating a visual spectacle that captivated the world. Such pioneering moves are likely to influence the planning of future ceremonies, including Los Angeles’s distinct approach with multiple venues.
As anticipation grows for the 2028 Games, details surrounding the opening ceremony, including potential performers and artistic themes, have yet to be disclosed. Nevertheless, fans can eagerly await TV broadcasts of the event on TNT Sports and discovery+, ensuring that audiences around the globe can be a part of this historic celebration.
The 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles run from July 14 to July 30, adding an extra layer of excitement for the summer sports calendar. As the world gears up for these Games, the narrative woven around Los Angeles’ storied past in hosting the Olympics, paired with a vision for the future, speaks volumes about the city’s role in promoting not just sports, but also global unity and progress. Both the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and SoFi Stadium are set to become celebrated chapters in the annals of Olympic history, showcasing the evolving essence of the Games while honoring its longstanding traditions. As such, the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games promises to be an event that blurs the lines between past achievements and future aspirations.