Skyrocketing Costs Cloud LA's 2028 Olympic Dreams

Concerns mount over whether the city can afford to host the Games amid political and international turmoil.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 5:55pm

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A cubist, geometric painting in bold colors depicting the fragmented and complex challenges facing the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, with no recognizable figures or text.The 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles face mounting hurdles, from soaring ticket prices to political divisions, that threaten to undermine the city's ability to successfully host the global event.Los Angeles Today

As Los Angeles prepares to host the 2028 Olympics, skyrocketing ticket prices and other financial concerns are raising doubts about whether the city is truly ready to welcome the world. The article explores the challenges facing LA, from war and divisive politics to bait-and-switch tactics by FIFA for World Cup ticket sales, and wonders if it's too late to return the Olympics to the IOC.

Why it matters

The 2028 Olympics were seen as a chance for LA to showcase itself on the global stage, but the mounting costs and logistical hurdles are threatening to overshadow the event. This story highlights the financial and political realities that host cities must grapple with when taking on the responsibility of the Olympic Games.

The details

When Los Angeles was selected to host the 2028 Olympics in 2017, it seemed like a natural fit given the city's Olympic heritage and existing facilities. However, the article notes that LA officials may have been too optimistic, as skyrocketing ticket prices, concerns over the city's readiness, and broader political and international tensions are now casting doubt on the event. The article also points to issues with FIFA's World Cup ticket sales, where fans were misled about seat locations, as a cautionary tale.

  • Los Angeles was approved by the International Olympic Committee in 2017 to host the 2028 Games.
  • The 2026 World Cup matches are scheduled to take place at SoFi Stadium in June.

The players

International Olympic Committee

The international organization responsible for overseeing the Olympic Games.

FIFA

The international governing body for association football, futsal, and beach soccer.

Cori Close

The head coach of the UCLA women's basketball team, who has championed the sport and collaborated with other coaches to increase coverage and attention.

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What they’re saying

“How many of you who were initially excited about a third Olympic Games for Southern California, or the eight World Cup matches at SoFi Stadium, are now much less enthusiastic?”

— Jim Alexander, Columnist

“Guess she proved 'em wrong.”

— Jim Alexander, Columnist

What’s next

The International Olympic Committee and FIFA will need to work closely with Los Angeles officials to address the mounting financial and logistical concerns surrounding the 2028 Olympics and 2026 World Cup matches. Ticket pricing and availability will be a key focus area.

The takeaway

The 2028 Olympics were meant to be a showcase for Los Angeles, but the city's ability to host the Games is now in question due to skyrocketing costs, political tensions, and broader global instability. This story highlights the challenges that host cities face when taking on the responsibility of major international sporting events.