Congresswoman Laura Friedman Celebrates Olympic Diving’s Move to Pasadena

Olympic diving will be staged at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center during the 2028 Summer Games, following a unanimous vote by the Los Angeles City Council to relocate the event from Exposition Park due to cost and safety concerns. The move, celebrated by U.S. Rep. Laura Friedman, who represents portions of West Pasadena, positions Pasadena as host to three Olympic sports and deepens its civic footprint in the Games.

The venue change is expected to save LA28 nearly $18 million and contribute to a combined $17.6 million in cost savings and revenue growth for the organizing committee. The original plan had called for diving to be held at the historic John C. Argue Swim Stadium, which was deemed structurally inadequate for Olympic standards.

“The Rose Bowl has long been a centerpiece of our community,” Friedman said. “I’m thrilled that diving will now join soccer here in Pasadena, showcasing not only the historic Rose Bowl Stadium but also our world-class Rose Bowl Aquatics Center. This expansion ensures Pasadena will be at the heart of the Games when the world comes to Los Angeles in 2028, while also delivering real benefits for our community.”

Pasadena will now host Olympic soccer at the Rose Bowl Stadium, diving at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center, and squash at Universal Studios, all within California’s 30th Congressional District. The diving events will be held outdoors, marking the first such Olympic setup since Rio 2016.

Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo called the decision “a tremendous win” for the city, citing the opportunity to welcome global visitors and stimulate local economic growth. LA28 CEO Reynold Hoover added that the updated venue plan reflects a commitment to fiscal responsibility and athlete safety.

The 2028 Games, officially hosted by Los Angeles, will feature events across Southern California. Pasadena’s expanded role builds on its legacy as a host city for the 1984 Olympics and multiple FIFA World Cups.