Cricket to Be Played at Temporary Venue in Pomona for Los Angeles 2028 Olympics

Los Angeles: Cricket at the 2028 Olympics will take place at a specially constructed temporary venue at the Fairgrounds in Pomona, Southern California, the LA28 organising committee announced on Tuesday.

The venue, officially known as Fairplex, spans nearly 500 acres and has hosted the Los Angeles County Fair since 1922. It regularly serves as a location for concerts, trade shows, and cultural events.

LA28 CEO Reynold Hoover expressed excitement over the venue selection, stating, “We’ve promised the world an incredible Olympic Games, and today we’re proud to share the plan that will make it happen. 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 International Cricket Council (ICC) also welcomed the development as anticipation builds for the sport’s return to the Olympic stage after a 128-year absence. Cricket last appeared in the 1900 Paris Games, where a single match was played between Great Britain and France.

Both men’s and women’s T20 tournaments will feature at LA28, with six teams in each category. A total of 90 players per gender will participate, with each nation allowed a 15-player squad.

ICC Chair Jay Shah said, “We welcome the announcement of the venue for cricket at Los Angeles 2028, as it is a significant step towards the preparation for our sport’s return to the Olympics. Featuring in the fast-paced T20 format, cricket has a great opportunity to attract new audiences globally.”

He added, “On behalf of the ICC, I want to express my gratitude to LA28 and the International Olympic Committee for their support and look forward to working together to ensure cricket’s success at the Games.”

Cricket was confirmed for inclusion in the 2028 Olympics in October 2023, alongside baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse (sixes), and squash.