The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on May 7 that Shanghai, along with Tokyo and two other cities, has been chosen to host the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Qualifier Series. This marks the second time Shanghai has been selected to host the event, following its successful stint in 2024 for the Paris Olympics.
The qualifier series will consist of four legs, taking place in Tokyo (Japan), Shanghai (China), Montreal (Canada), and Orlando (USA). The Asian legs are scheduled for May 2028, while the North American legs will follow in June. The specific events are yet to be finalized, but the planned disciplines include 3×3 basketball, beach volleyball, BMX freestyle, sport climbing, flag football, and skateboarding. Among these, BMX freestyle, sport climbing, and skateboarding were part of the inaugural 2024 series, while 3×3 basketball, beach volleyball, and flag football are new additions.
“IOC President Thomas Bach commented: ‘This edition of the Qualifier Series is an exciting global competition on the road to the Los Angeles Games. With one format, four hosts, and six sports, it aims to boost athlete exposure and deepen fan engagement worldwide. We believe it will be an extraordinary experience for both sports enthusiasts and host cities, blending sports, music, and culture in iconic urban settings.'”
Prior to the 2024 Paris Olympics, Shanghai and Budapest each hosted a leg of the qualifier, receiving positive feedback. For 2028, the events in Shanghai will be held in the West Bund area, a core part of the city’s “One River, One Creek” world-class waterfront. A spokesperson from the Shanghai Sports Bureau stated that the decision to bid for the 2028 series was based on the success of the 2024 edition, with a vision to create a global festival that empowers both youth and the city. The initiative aims to integrate trendy, youth-oriented urban sports into daily life and spark mutual vitality through competitions and city sports parties, embodying the spirit of “Youth, Urban, Creativity, Energy.”
