The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics torch relay will kick off in Atlanta, where the last U.S. Summer Games took place in 1996, then traverse all 50 states, according to organizers’ announcement on Tuesday. The Olympic flame will be ignited in Olympia, Greece, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, before embarking on its journey across the United States in spring 2028. The exact route for the torch relay is set to be revealed in 2027.
LA28 organizers have revealed that the relay is expected to be one of the most extensive in Olympic history, passing through renowned landmarks globally, pausing at significant cultural and sporting events, and hosting festive gatherings in selected cities nationwide. In a statement, LA28 chair and president Casey Wasserman expressed, “Every Olympic Games commences with a sole flame, and conveying that flame to Los Angeles is a privilege and honor that we will share with every corner of the country, as individuals from all 50 states carry the flame towards our Opening Ceremony.”
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens mentioned that the city is excited to welcome back the Olympic flame after 32 years since hosting the centennial Summer Games. Dickens stated, “Atlanta has evolved. We have grown larger and are more interconnected globally. Therefore, as the flame returns to the U.S., Atlanta stands prepared.” He added, “Prepared to receive it from Greece. Prepared to rejoice in the Games’ spirit collectively as a community. And prepared to pass it forward towards Los Angeles and the subsequent chapter of America’s Olympic narrative.”
Following the conclusion of the Olympics in August 2028, the Paralympic torch relay will commence, originating in Stoke Mandeville, England, the birthplace of the Paralympic movement. The starting location for the U.S. leg of the relay will be announced later. Both torch relays are set to be sponsored by Coca-Cola, JPMorganChase, Allstate, and Xfinity.