The devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles have amplified criticism of the city’s preparedness for the 2028 Olympics. Critics argue that the crisis exposes vulnerabilities in the city’s infrastructure and emergency response capabilities, raising concerns about its ability to host the world’s largest sporting event.
Governor Gavin Newsom, however, reassured residents during an appearance on Meet the Press, emphasizing that Los Angeles will be ready to welcome the world in 2028. Casey Wasserman, President of LA28, echoed this sentiment, praising the city’s resilience and unity in tough times.
The fires, which officials warn could become one of the most devastating natural disasters in U.S. history, have so far spared key Olympic venues, including the Rose Bowl, SoFi Stadium, and Crypto.com Arena. These facilities are slated to host major events like soccer, swimming, and gymnastics.
Despite assurances from organizers, Eric Sheehan of NOlympics LA criticized the city’s priorities. “These fires cement the message we’ve been spreading since 2017,” he said. “Los Angeles cannot take care of its residents and host the largest sporting event in American history simultaneously.”
The estimated $7 billion Olympic budget is privately funded, but taxpayers would shoulder any overruns. Critics like NOlympics argue that investments in public transportation ahead of the Games benefit tourists rather than residents.
Experts agree that a relocation of the 2028 Olympics is highly unlikely. Jonathan Aronson, a global governance expert at USC, said moving the Games at this stage is “almost impossible” given the complex logistics. Nathan Line, a hospitality professor at Florida State University, added that Los Angeles has spent more than a decade preparing for the event and will rebuild any wildfire-damaged infrastructure.
While challenges remain, the consensus among experts and organizers is that Los Angeles will proceed with hosting the Olympics, with the city’s resilience and existing infrastructure cited as key advantages.
