Gordo: Calls Olympics Soccer Announcement ‘Tremendous News’

Mayor Victor Gordo on Tuesday welcomed confirmation that Pasadena will host the men’s and women’s soccer semifinals and finals during the 2028 Olympic Games, calling the selection a major boost for the City’s international profile.

In a statement, the City said the soccer matches, combined with Olympic diving events at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center, will showcase Pasadena on a global stage and highlight its role in the Games.

“The confirmation of the men’s and women’s soccer semifinals and finals for the 2028 Olympic Games is tremendous news for our city,” the statement said. “Together with Olympic diving at the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center, the world will see why we are so proud of our great City of Pasadena.”

The assignment cements the Rose Bowl’s status as one of only two venues in the world—alongside the LA Memorial Coliseum—to host events at three Olympic Games (in 1932, 1984, and 2028).

Six additional U.S. cities were also announced Tuesday, which will host group stage and knockout matches: New York, Columbus, Nashville, St. Louis, San Jose, and San Diego.

LA28 said teams will progress east to west as they advance toward the final stages in Pasadena, minimizing travel demands. The detailed match schedule will be announced before the first ticket drop in April 2026.

For the first time in Olympic history, the women’s soccer tournament will feature 16 teams—four more than the men’s 12-team competition. The change, approved by the International Olympic Committee in April 2024, makes LA28 the first Olympic Games where all team sports feature at least as many women’s teams as men’s.

Gordo said Pasadena is preparing to welcome athletes, visitors and spectators from around the world, highlighting the City’s long history of hosting major sporting events and its proximity to key Olympic venues across the Los Angeles region.

“Pasadena will be ready to welcome the world and celebrate great athletes, the power of sport, and our global community,” the statement said.