Thomas Bach, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) president, made a bold statement about his relationship with Donald Trump.
As the devastating wildfires in California rage on, threatening the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Bach revealed he has not spoken to the former president in recent months. The wildfires have caused widespread destruction, leaving at least 25 dead and thousands of homes destroyed.
It’s a disaster that could go down in history as the costliest fire in America, and it’s happening just a few years before the world arrives in Los Angeles for the Olympic Games.
The wildfires’ impact on the 2028 games
Firefighters have made significant progress against the flames around California, but the damage is severe. With the fires encroaching on areas near Olympic venues, like the Riviera Country Club and Rose Bowl Stadium, the future of the 2028 Games is uncertain.
As the crisis unfolds, Bach, who has been the IOC president since 2013, prepares to step down in June. That’s just months before Trump is expected to return to the Oval Office. Yet despite their past interactions, Bach has made it clear that he is not in talks with the president-elect.
“I don’t think it would be fair to reach out now,” Bach said. “This is a time for my successor to take over. I don’t want to influence any decisions.” His decision not to speak with Trump comes as California grapples with the aftermath of the fires, which have already affected key Olympic venues.
IOC remains committed to LA2028
However, the IOC remains determined to proceed with the Games in Los Angeles. “Los Angeles is defined by its resilience and determination,” said Casey Wasserman, chairman of LA2028. “We are stronger together. When we welcome the world in 2028, our spirit will shine brighter than ever.”
Governor Newsom’s reassurance
Despite the devastation, California Governor Gavin Newsom reassured the public, stating that a recovery plan is already in the works. “We’re organizing a Marshall Plan to ensure Los Angeles will be ready,” Newsom said. “This is an opportunity for the country to shine, for California to shine, and for our community to shine.” Newsom praised Trump for helping secure the Olympics in the U.S. and acknowledged his role in bringing the Games to Los Angeles.
Bach’s past comments on Trump
Bach had previously expressed confidence in working with Trump ahead of the Games, despite earlier comments where he was less than complimentary about the president. After a White House meeting in 2017, Bach was overheard saying, “Pray for our world.”
Can LA overcome the fires in time for the games?
As California continues to battle the fires, the question remains: Can Los Angeles recover in time for the Games? The IOC is committed to the city’s resilience and plans to move forward with the Olympics, but the path ahead is uncertain. While Bach has chosen not to engage with Trump, Governor Newsom’s leadership and determination may be what ultimately leads Los Angeles through this challenging time.
In the face of disaster, the spirit of Los Angeles stands strong. And as 2028 draws closer, the world will be watching to see if the city can overcome the flames and deliver a memorable Olympic Games.
