Trump Could Plan 'Tacky MAGA Horror Show' for 2028 Olympics

Political analyst warns of president's potential plans to put his stamp on the global sporting event.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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A political analyst has claimed that former President Donald Trump could be planning a major, MAGA-themed blowout for the final year of his presidency in 2028, when the Olympics are set to take place in Los Angeles. The analyst suggests Trump may try to ensure the 2028 Olympics are a "tacky MAGA horror show" that reflects his own image, taking advantage of the global platform.

Why it matters

With the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics both taking place in the US during Trump's potential second term, the analyst warns the former president may see these events as an opportunity to showcase his 'MAGA' brand on the world stage, potentially clashing with the traditional apolitical nature of the Olympics.

The details

The analyst, Justin Peters of Slate, suggests Trump could exploit financial strains on the United Nations and International Olympic Committee to exert influence over the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Peters warns of the possibility of "Olympic medals minted with Charlie Kirk's face on them" as part of Trump's vision for the games.

  • The 2028 Olympic Games are scheduled to take place in Los Angeles.
  • The 2026 World Cup will also be held in the US.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president who the analyst believes may try to put his "MAGA" stamp on the 2028 Olympics.

Justin Peters

A Slate columnist who has analyzed the potential for Trump to influence the 2028 Olympics.

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What they’re saying

“What I'm saying is that Donald Trump probably can't ruin the Olympics—or at least he can't ruin these Olympics.”

— Justin Peters, Slate Columnist (Slate)

“There is every reason to think that Trump will go out of his way to ensure that those Olympics are a tacky MAGA horror show made in his own image.”

— Justin Peters, Slate Columnist (Slate)

What’s next

The International Olympic Committee and Los Angeles organizers will need to closely monitor the political landscape and potential influence from the former president as they prepare for the 2028 Games.

The takeaway

This analysis highlights the potential for a former US president to try to politicize and brand a traditionally apolitical global sporting event like the Olympics, raising concerns about the integrity and neutrality of the games.