The Olympic games are returning to the Rose Bowl for a third time.
The city of Pasadena Wednesday, March 26, announced an agreement with the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games for the Rose Bowl to host Olympic soccer, including the semifinal and final matches for both the men’s and women’s tournaments.
“This is our moment to show the world why Pasadena is not only a premier destination to explore during the games but a top choice for travelers well into the future,” CEO of Pasadena Center Operating Company Michael Ross said in a statement. “The economic impact from hosting the Games at the Rose Bowl Stadium will be substantial to the City, the Rose Bowl, and the local and regional community.”
All venues and sport assignments are subject to final approval from the International Olympic Committee Executive Board. According to the city, with the agreement there is a tiered framework that will take shape over the course of three additional agreements to be negotiated between now and October 2027.
Pasadena first hosted Olympic competition in 1932, when the Rose Bowl held track cycling. In 1984, the stadium hosted Olympic soccer including the gold medal match between France and Brazil which drew more than 101,000 spectators.
LA28 Chief Executive Officer Reynold Hoover said in a statement that the Rose Bowl will be only the second venue in the world to support its third Olympic games.
“The Rose Bowl Stadium is America’s Stadium and one of the most iconic venues in the world, Rose Bowl Stadium CEO Jens Weiden said in a statement. “Our incredibly rich history is filled with major global sporting and music events, and our setting is undeniably one of the best in the world. The 2028 Olympic Games will uplift the entire Southern California community, and we are honored to play a part in hosting Olympic soccer when once again, Pasadena will welcome the world to our city.”