Olympic triathlon bombshell as LA28 races moved to iconic Los Angeles location

The triathlon events at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles have been moved to the iconic Venice Beach neighbourhood. 

One of the best-known parts of the host city, Venice Beach is set to provide a stunning backdrop as the world’s best triathletes go toe to toe at LA28. 

The decision was made by the Olympic Games Organising Committee, with the individual men’s, individual women’s, and mixed relay events moving away from the original location of Long Beach. 

The updated Paralympic venue plan will all be announced at a later date following review and approval by the International Paralympic Committee Governing Board.  

Party time for triathlon

At Paris 2024, Alex Yee and Cassandre Beaugrand claimed Olympic gold at the Pont Alexandre III bridge, but in 2028 the setting couldn’t be more different. 

Along with mixed relay winners Germany, they’ll be trying to defend their Olympic triathlon medals by being the first to cross the line in front of what will surely be a vibrant, boisterous Venice Beach crowd – the youthful neighbourhood known as a hotspot for artists, street performers and partying. 

“We are super excited about the new venue,” said Antonio F. Arimany, President Elect of World Triathlon. 

“Venice Beach offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere that perfectly complements the spirit of triathlon.  

“We are confident that this iconic location will provide an unforgettable experience for athletes, fans, and the global audience.” 

Meanwhile, it’s also been confirmed that the athlete quota for triathlon will remain the same as it was for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, with 55 men and 55 women. 

‘Iconic shores’

As well as becoming triathlon’s new home, the men’s and women’s marathons and road cycling races were confirmed to start from Venice Beach, as LA28 organisers announced venues across the city. 

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

“Los Angeles is the epicentre of sports, culture and entertainment, and every venue selected for the 2028 Games will provide athletes and fans the best possible experience.  

“The 2028 Olympic venue plan invites communities from across the region to celebrate the Games coming to their backyard with the most exciting sports staged at some of the world’s top-tier existing stadiums and arenas, famous beaches and purpose-built temporary structures.” 

“As the host city for the 2028 Games, Los Angeles will become only the third city in the history of the world to host the Summer Olympics three times and these venues will showcase the best of our city to a global audience,” echoed City of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.  

“This plan brings the Games to all corners of our city like never before — 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.”