Venues confirmed for LA28 as cricket rejoins Olympics after 128 years

Cricket will return to the Olympic stage for the first time since 1900, with organisers of the Los Angeles 2028 Games confirming.

The Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games will mark cricket’s return to the Olympics after a 128-year absence. The announcement on Tuesday confirmed that matches will be held in Pomona, resolving earlier speculation that the sport could be staged as far away as New York.

The tournament will follow a six-team Twenty20 format for both men and women.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) had previously endorsed cricket’s inclusion, citing its global appeal with an estimated fan base of 2.5 billion. The International Cricket Council (ICC) welcomed the venue confirmation, calling it a key milestone in preparations for the sport’s Olympic return.

“We welcome the announcement of the venue for cricket at Los Angeles 2028 as it is a significant step towards the preparation for our sport’s return to the Olympics,” ICC Chairman Jay Shah said in a press release.

Elsewhere, LA28 unveiled a range of high-profile venues across the region. Squash will make its Olympic debut at Universal Studios’ Courthouse Square, a location featured in films such as Back to the Future and To Kill a Mockingbird.

The triathlon will shift from Long Beach to Venice Beach, which will also serve as the start line for the men’s and women’s marathons and the road cycling races. Surfing will take place at Trestles Beach in San Clemente, a popular spot known for its consistent wave quality.

Baseball will return to Dodger Stadium, the iconic home of the Los Angeles Dodgers and a host site during the 1984 Olympics.

“We’ve promised the world an incredible Olympic Games and today we’re proud to share the plan that will make it happen,” LA28 chief executive Reynold Hoover said.

Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass described the announcement as a chance to showcase the city’s diversity. “From the Sepulveda Basin to the iconic shores of Venice Beach, our world-famous neighbourhoods as well as our hidden gems will be on full display for all to experience and enjoy,” she said.

Additional venues announced include Santa Anita Park for equestrian events and Anaheim’s Honda Center for volleyball.