The 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles will mark one of the most dynamic and sport-diverse editions of the Games in modern history. As the world’s biggest sporting stage continues to evolve, the Summer Games hosting committee has embraced both tradition and innovation by reintroducing historic sports while also welcoming fast-growing, youth-driven disciplines.
This unique blend of returning favorites and exciting new additions reflects the changing global sports landscape and the desire to engage new audiences around the world. From centuries-old bat-and-ball games to fast-paced urban team sports, the Los Angeles Games will showcase a wide spectrum of athletic skill, culture, and competition. Below is a closer look at the sports making headlines for 2028 and what makes each one significant.
The 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles will feature several new and returning sports, including:
Cricket
Flag football
An optional sport that will make its Summer Games debut. It is a non-contact version of American football where players stop the ball carrier by pulling a flag attached to their waist instead of tackling. Played by teams of 5–8 players, it emphasizes speed, strategy, and teamwork. The game is safer and widely enjoyed for its accessibility and inclusivity across all ages and skill levels.
Squash
An optional sport that will make its Summer Games debut. It is a fast-paced racket sport played by two players (singles) or four players (doubles) in an enclosed court. Players take turns hitting a small rubber ball against the front wall, aiming to outmaneuver their opponent and score points by making the ball unreturnable. Known for its intensity and agility, squash is a popular sport for fitness and competition worldwide.
Lacrosse
Baseball
A returning sport that last appeared in the Summer Games in 2021.Baseball is a bat-and-ball sport played between two teams of nine players each. The game involves batting, fielding, and pitching, with the goal of scoring runs by hitting the ball and running around four bases arranged in a diamond shape. Popular in countries like the United States, Japan, and Cuba, baseball is celebrated for its blend of strategy, skill, and teamwork.
Softball
A returning sport that last appeared in the Summer Games in 2021. It is a bat-and-ball sport similar to baseball but played on a smaller field with a larger ball. It is typically played by two teams of 9–10 players each, with the goal of scoring runs by hitting the ball and running around bases. Softball comes in two main forms: slow-pitch and fast-pitch, differing in pitching style and game speed. Known for its accessibility, it is enjoyed recreationally and competitively worldwide.
If you want to learn more about the Los Angeles Summer Games and other sporting events we have put together, please feel free to reach out to our team of experts. We are here to help guide you through it and deliver an unforgettable experience for you.
The addition of these new and returning sports will make the 2028 Summer Games one of the most diverse and globally inclusive editions in history. Hosted across vibrant venues throughout Los Angeles, the Games will highlight both tradition and innovation, bringing together athletes and fans from every corner of the world.
As excitement builds toward 2028, these sports will not only shape the competition but also reflect the evolving future of global athletics. From historic returns to modern debuts, Los Angeles is set to deliver a Games experience that celebrates the past, embraces the present, and inspires the next generation of sport.