Los Angeles Olympic organizers confirm the 2028 Games will proceed as planned, with special provisions to accommodate athletes from countries affected by President Trump’s travel ban.
At a Glance
- Federal government has acknowledged the Olympics require “special consideration” despite the travel ban affecting 12 countries
- LA28 officials have received assurances that Olympic athletes, officials, and media from all nations will be accommodated
- Preparations for the 2028 Games are well underway, with LA28 having secured over 60% of projected revenue
- IOC officials recently visited Los Angeles and noted “significant progress” in venue development
- The Games are scheduled to open July 14, 2028, with 1,135 days remaining until the event
Federal Government Makes Olympic Exception
Olympic organizers for the 2028 Los Angeles Games have confirmed that President Trump’s travel ban targeting citizens from 12 countries will not affect athletes and participants. The ban, which includes nations such as Afghanistan, Myanmar, and Iran, raised concerns about potential limitations on Olympic participation. However, LA28 Chairman Casey Wasserman stated that explicit provisions have been made to ensure the Games remain accessible to competitors from all nations.
“It was very clear in the directive that the Olympics require special consideration and I actually want to thank the federal government for recognizing that,” said Casey Wasserman.
This assurance aligns with America’s historical commitment to supporting international sporting events regardless of geopolitical tensions. The federal government has previously guaranteed to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) that they would facilitate entry for participants from all 206 countries expected to compete. Officials emphasized that this commitment has not changed, with Wasserman expressing confidence that the travel directive includes specific language addressing Olympic-related travel.
IOC Expresses Confidence in U.S. Cooperation
A delegation of sixteen IOC members recently visited Los Angeles to inspect various Olympic venues, including Dodger Stadium. The visit highlighted the substantial progress being made in preparation for the Games. Nicole Hoevertsz, Chair of the IOC Coordination Commission, reinforced the international body’s faith in American authorities to uphold Olympic values of inclusivity and global participation.
“We as the IOC have every confidence in the fact that the local authorities and the federal authorities understand that bringing the Games to your country is a big responsibility,” noted Nicole Hoevertsz.
The IOC’s last official assessment in November indicated significant advances in venue development and infrastructure planning. Hoevertsz pointed to previous Olympic events hosted in the United States, where similar accommodations were successfully implemented for international athletes. The established pattern of cooperation between Olympic organizers and U.S. immigration authorities provides a strong foundation for addressing potential challenges three years before the Games commence.
Financial and Operational Progress
With 1,135 days remaining until the opening ceremony on July 14, 2028, LA28 organizers report they have transitioned into “delivery mode.” The organizing committee has already contracted over 60% of projected revenue, surpassing the total revenue secured by the Paris Olympics without including ticket sales. This financial milestone suggests the Los Angeles Games are on track to be profitable, building on the city’s successful hosting of the 1984 Olympics.
LA28 CEO Reynold Hoover has emphasized sustainability and positive community impact as central components of the Games’ planning. Additionally, contingency planning remains a priority, particularly concerning environmental challenges such as California’s recurring wildfires. The organizing committee is developing comprehensive strategies to address potential disruptions, ensuring a smooth experience for athletes and spectators alike.
Los Angeles’ approach to hosting the 2028 Olympics builds on America’s long tradition of welcoming international athletic competition. By securing early commitments from the federal government regarding travel accommodations, organizers have addressed a potential concern well in advance, demonstrating foresight and diplomatic skill in balancing national security interests with international sporting obligations.