Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass accepted the Olympic flag with assists from Tom Cruise and gymnast Simone Biles at the end of the Paris Olympics as Los Angeles prepares to host the games in 2028, planning to take advantage of its beaches and existing sports facilities while adding a train line. "As we've seen here in Paris, the Olympics are an opportunity to make transformative change," Bass said. 

Los Angeles is gearing up to host the Olympic Games in 2028, marking its third time as host city after memorable stints in 1932 and 1984. At the recent Paris Olympics closing ceremony, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass accepted the Olympic flag, symbolizing the city's readiness to embrace the global event once more. The handover involved Hollywood stars like Tom Cruise, who ceremoniously passed the torch to LA's business community, igniting anticipation for the upcoming games.

Looking back, Los Angeles first hosted the Olympics during the challenging times of the Great Depression in 1932. Despite limited international participation, the event produced iconic moments, including American athlete Babe Didrikson Zaharias's triumphs in new women's events. In 1984, LA's successful hosting earned it the reputation as the "good" Olympics, blending Hollywood flair with athletic excellence, symbolized by Rafer Johnson lighting the torch and a memorable jetpack entrance.

As LA prepares for 2028, the city plans a "no-build games," leveraging existing world-class venues like SoFi Stadium in Inglewood and the historic Memorial Coliseum. This approach contrasts with Paris's innovative Seine River ceremony, underscoring LA's blend of tradition and modernity in Olympic hosting. SoFi Stadium, renowned for hosting major events like the Super Bowl, will become the largest Olympic swimming venue ever, highlighting LA's commitment to sustainable and impactful games.

Mayor Bass emphasized the transformative potential of the Olympics, aiming to enhance infrastructure like a new train line while showcasing LA's beaches and cultural vibrancy. With preparations underway, Los Angeles aims to deliver an unforgettable Olympic experience in 2028, celebrating its rich Olympic legacy while embracing future possibilities for global sports and community engagement.