Cricket officially added to the LA 2028 Olympic program

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially accepted cricket’s inclusion in the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. This eagerly awaited announcement was made during the IOC session on Monday in Mumbai. Both men’s and women’s teams will play in the Twenty20 version of cricket in the Los Angeles matches. For LA28, the ICC will initially field just six teams in each division.

In addition to cricket, other approved sports in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles will include baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse, and squash.

Official confirmation of this choice was provided by IOC member Nita Ambani, who said, “The inclusion of cricket in the sports program for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games is a welcomed addition that holds the potential to generate a significant influx of interest and opportunities for the Olympic movement in previously unexplored regions across the globe.”

Following the IOC members’ decision to include cricket as an Olympic sport in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, Nita Ambani, an IOC member, proud Indian, and ardent cricket fan, expressed her utter joy. She also happens to be the team owner of the IPL’s Mumbai Indians.

The last time cricket made an Olympic appearance was in 1900, with only two teams competing. Notably, this was just the second time in history that the IOC session had been held in India after a 40-year absence. Nita Ambani continued, “I’m thrilled that this historic resolution was passed during the 141st IOC Session, held right here in our homeland, Mumbai.”

“For many players worldwide, the notion of an Olympic dream has evolved into an active quest. According to Janet Evans, chief athlete officer for LA28, “This incredible journey over the next five years will undeniably transform lives, giving athletes the inspiring opportunity to represent their sport and nation on the grandest global stage.” “Participating in the Games is a unique and unparalleled experience, and every athlete who embarks on this journey will weave an invaluable thread into the shared narrative of the LA28 Games.”

“Cricket’s inclusion in the Olympic Games has been a long-standing priority for our organization, and we are thrilled to have the chance to showcase our beloved sport and its exceptional athletes at the LA28 Games, with hopes of participation in many Olympic Games to come,” said Greg Barclay, Chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

I’d like to express gratitude to LA28 and the International Olympic Committee for their consistent support and their belief in our group’s ability to put on a top-notch event and inspire a huge number of new Olympic fans from all around the world. The fact that the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup is taking place in Mumbai at the same time as the IOC’s confirmation of our selection is the cherry on top.

In this procedure, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was important. The ICC Olympics Working Group, which was essential in achieving cricket’s inclusion in the Olympic Games, included its Secretary, Jay Shah. Shah has constantly fought for the inclusion of cricket in a variety of multi-sport competitions, including the recent Asian Games in China and the Commonwealth Games, when India won gold medals in both the Men’s and Women’s divisions.

Participation of the BCCI in the Process

“The BCCI has consistently supported the ICC’s efforts to include cricket in the Olympic program. We feel honored to be present for this historic event, which represents a significant turning point for the sport. The argument for cricket’s participation in the Olympics has been advanced thanks in large part to our aggressive involvement. This effort supports our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s aim for India to host the Olympics in 2036, Shah said.

Cricket’s inclusion in the Olympic program is expected to expand its horizons and provide it unequaled exposure in as-yet unknown international markets. “We believe that this choice will result in significant financial gains and have a very good effect on the ecosystem of the sport. In addition, it will support young development, increase competition, and open up chances for leaders, volunteers, and skilled workers,” Shah continued.