Geneva – Leaders within the Olympic movement express considerable optimism about collaborating with the incoming Trump administration as preparations ramp up for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Thomas Bach, the outgoing president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), conveyed this sentiment during a recent address. He characterized the mood among Olympic officials as “very confident and relaxed” regarding future interactions with the new administration.
Donald Trump, the President-elect, has made claims about his involvement in securing the Olympic Games for Los Angeles back in 2017. However, a meeting at the White House where Trump engaged with an Olympic delegation featuring Bach did not yield the desired outcomes. Nonetheless, the prospect of a renewed conversation is on the horizon, as Trump and Bach might come face to face soon in Paris, the city set to host the 2024 Summer Games, which Los Angeles initially pursued.
This weekend, Trump will be in Paris to attend ceremonies marking the reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral, which suffered extensive damage from a fire five years ago. In addition to Trump’s itinerary, Bach has also been invited back to the Olympic host city, where he maintains strong ties with French President Emmanuel Macron, who officially inaugurated the Summer Games on July 26.
Looking ahead, it is anticipated that President Trump will fulfill a similar ceremonial role at the Los Angeles Olympic Games opening ceremony scheduled for July 14, 2028, to be held at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. Although the organization of the LA Olympics is primarily financed privately, federal backing will be crucial to ensure security measures are in place. This includes facilitating visas for athletes, coaches, and officials from a total of 206 national teams, alongside a contingent representing refugees.
During his address on Thursday, Bach pointed out that initiating early conversations with the incoming Trump team is the responsibility of the Los Angeles organizing committee and the leaders of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC). He expressed confidence in the ongoing efforts, stating, “We are very confident there with regard to the steps and efforts being undertaken.” Bach also noted Trump’s consistent declarations of support for the games, which he emphasized have never been in question.
On Wednesday, Trump announced the appointment of Monica Crowley as his representative for significant U.S.-hosted events, including both the LA Olympics and the 2026 Men’s Soccer World Cup. In conjunction with this, FIFA will extend an invitation for Trump to present the trophy to the winning captain during the World Cup final, scheduled for July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium, located near New York City.
