Get ready to cheer on your favorite sports in the 2028 Summer Games! Los Angeles organizers have just revealed their list of five “new” events that they hope to include in the Olympics. And it’s no surprise that they want to bring back baseball and softball, which were played in Tokyo but won’t be seen in Paris next year. Alongside these classics, LA28 is also pushing for the inclusion of cricket, lacrosse, and squash.
“We wanted to challenge the norm and think outside the box when it comes to the Games,” said Kathy Carter, the chief executive of the organizing committee. The final decision will be made by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) during a session in Mumbai on October 16. However, after months of discussions between the IOC and LA28, it’s highly likely that all five sports will get the green light.
Host cities are given the opportunity to propose additional sports to the standard program of 28 sports, such as gymnastics, track, and basketball. The IOC is always on the lookout for popular games that will attract a new generation of fans and help build its brand. Newcomers are given a one-time chance, with no guarantee of becoming a permanent fixture. Luckily, surfing, skateboarding, and sport climbing impressed in Tokyo and will be sticking around. On the other hand, breaking (also known as break dancing) didn’t make it for 2028 and might only be seen in Paris.
LA28 carefully considered both relevance and economic feasibility when choosing the new sports. Chairman Casey Wasserman explained that they favored sports that could be played at existing venues in Southern California. So, let’s break down the pros and cons:
Pros:
– Baseball and softball are making a comeback!
– Cricket, lacrosse, and squash will bring some fresh excitement to the Games.
– The IOC is likely to approve all five sports due to their popularity.
Cons:
– Breaking (break dancing) won’t be seen in 2028 and might not be a regular feature after its debut in Paris.
Get ready to witness some thrilling matches and cheer on your favorite athletes as they compete in these exciting new sports in the 2028 Summer Games!
