A constellation of sporting legends has officially ignited the countdown to the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. In a spectacular event at the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, more than 300 past and present athletes gathered to mark a pivotal moment for the upcoming Games.
Star-Studded Launch for Ticket Registration
The primary purpose of the gathering was to herald the launch of ticket registration for the LA28 Games. The registration portal opened to the public on Wednesday at 10 a.m. Eastern Standard Time (3 p.m. GMT). Fans eager to be part of the event are being urged to register at Tickets.LA28.org to secure a time slot for when ticket sales commence.
Among the iconic figures present were gymnastics legend Nadia Comaneci and champion speed skater Apolo Ohno. Their presence underscored the global and historic significance of the Los Angeles Olympics, which will mark the third time the city has hosted the Summer Games.
Athlete-Centred Games Promised by Organisers
Leading the athlete-focused message was Janet Evans, the Olympic champion swimmer who now serves as the Chief Athlete Officer for the LA28 organising committee. She emphasised the committee's steadfast commitment to delivering an athlete-centred experience, a philosophy that was echoed throughout the event.
Attending athletes had the opportunity to meet directly with LA28 officials. Many participants noted the significant and meaningful involvement of athletes in the ongoing planning process, a detail that promises to shape the Games for competitors and spectators alike.
What Happens Next for Ticket Buyers
While registration is the first critical step, the actual ticket purchasing phase will follow later this year. The LA28 committee has confirmed that both individual session tickets and premium hospitality packages will become available for purchase in the coming months.
This staged approach is designed to manage demand and ensure a fair process for millions of anticipated fans worldwide. The event at the Coliseum, where the Olympic cauldron was symbolically lit, has set the stage for what promises to be a monumental build-up to the Games in 2028.