Olympic Diving to Return to Pasadena in 2028 at Rose Bowl Aquatics Center

The Rose Bowl Aquatics Center will host Olympic diving events during the 2028 Summer Games, following formal approval Tuesday by the Los Angeles City Council of LA28’s venue relocation proposal. The decision places Pasadena back on the Olympic map and affirms the city’s role in staging international competition.

The announcement came via a joint statement from LA28, the City of Pasadena, and the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center (RBAC), which will serve as the official diving venue for the Los Angeles-hosted Games. “The RBAC is proud to stage Olympic diving in partnership with LA28 and the City of Pasadena,” the statement read. The RBAC, built with funds left over from the 1984 Olympics, has since become a regional center for aquatics training, water safety, and community wellness.

Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo welcomed the decision, calling it “a tremendous win for Pasadena, our businesses, our residents, and the visitors who will come to Pasadena from around the globe.” He added, “For generations, Pasadena has welcomed the world to share in events that inspire and uplift, and this will be another chance to add to that proud legacy.” Gordo also emphasized the civic and economic significance of the Games returning to Pasadena, noting the city’s commitment to “bringing energy, meaningful economic opportunities, and pride to our entire city.” He concluded, “Though the perfect dive minimizes splash, the natural beauty of Pasadena’s Rose Bowl Aquatics Center will make the biggest splash Olympic diving has ever seen.”

Melanie Sauer, Executive Director of the RBAC, said the center’s Olympic designation “brings things full circle,” referencing its origins tied to the 1984 Games. “The RBAC was born from the enduring impact of the 1984 Games, built with funds left over from that historic moment,” Sauer said. “Hosting the Olympic Diving competition in 2028 will inspire a new generation of kids and families in our community. We are grateful to the City of Pasadena and LA28 for their partnership and vision in making this possible.”

The RBAC serves thousands annually through swim instruction, competitive training, therapy, and wellness programs. Officials said the Olympic designation will spotlight Pasadena’s commitment to aquatics and elevate the center’s visibility on the global stage.

LA28 and RBAC representatives said additional details regarding event schedules, ticketing, and community engagement will be released as the Games approach.