Southern California is once again preparing to welcome the world, as the LA28 Olympic Games have confirmed that the sport of Sailing will take place in Long Beach. Though initial reports sparked some uncertainty, the International Olympic Committee has now approved the updated venue plan, cementing Long Beach’s role as a key player in the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Long Beach isn’t new to Olympic history. The city served as host for rowing and sailing events in the 1932 Olympics and returned to the world stage in 1984 with events in sailing, fencing, and archery. In 2028, it will reclaim its place in Olympic history, offering a vibrant waterfront stage for Olympic Sailing at Belmont Shore. From July 21 through August 6, 2028, 330 athletes will compete in 10 sailing events, featuring equal participation for men and women.
The events include ILCA 6 and ILCA 7 dinghy classes, the 49er and 49erFX skiffs, the Nacra 17 mixed multihull, and windsurfing and kiteboarding events across iQFOiL and Formula Kite classes. These competitions promise not only technical mastery and athletic excellence but also stunning coastal backdrops emblematic of Long Beach’s sailing culture.
The confirmation follows a brief swirl of speculation, prompted by discussions to move sailing to San Pedro. LA City Councilmember Tim McOsker had lobbied for the venue to shift to his district, citing better winds and financial benefits. However, logistical and environmental challenges — including inadequate infrastructure and persistent seaweed issues — kept Long Beach as the more viable and experienced choice.
But Sailing is just one chapter in Long Beach’s growing Olympic story. The city is set to host 11 events — more than double the original estimate from LA’s initial Olympic bid. Alongside sailing, spectators can expect to see Beach Volleyball, Coastal Rowing, Sport Climbing, Target Shooting, Water Polo, Artistic Swimming, Marathon Swimming, Canoe-Sprint, Rowing, and Handball.
Mayor Rex Richardson has welcomed the expansion, calling it a “generational economic opportunity” for the city. From Alamitos Beach to the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, Olympic action will unfold across six landmark locations, showcasing both sport and Southern California’s coastal appeal.
Belmont Shore will serve as the sailing venue, while Marine Stadium — originally constructed for the 1932 Games — will again host rowing and canoe-sprint competitions. Alamitos Beach will feature both Beach Volleyball and Marathon Swimming, while temporary venues for Target Shooting and Sport Climbing will be constructed in the Convention Center lot.
With just over three years until the Olympic flame arrives in Los Angeles, Long Beach has launched a Strategic Roadmap and a dedicated LA28 web page to prepare for the momentous task ahead. The city will need to balance upgrades to infrastructure and transportation with managing international crowds and preserving the local environment.
Yet for many, the return of Olympic Sailing to Southern California is symbolic. It’s a nod to tradition and a celebration of what’s to come. The breeze off the Pacific, the salty air, the legacy of champions past — Long Beach has all the makings of a world-class Olympic venue.
The countdown is on, and for Southern California, the Games can’t arrive soon enough.
For more updates on Long Beach’s Olympic planning, visit longbeach.gov/2028Games, and for official LA28 developments, head to LA28.org.
