2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games Events Planned for Pasadena

The Pasadena City Council will consider, on Monday, authorizing the City Manager to enter into a Games Agreement with the Los Angeles Organizing Committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games (OCOG). 

The agreement would formalize Pasadena’s role as a venue city for the upcoming international event. 

In 2028, the Los Angeles will become the third city to host the Olympic Games for a third time, joining London and Paris. 

The Rose Bowl will host the semifinals and finals of the men’s and women’s soccer in the 2028 Olympic Summer Games. 

“It’s been out there for a while in the inner circle of our venues we’re going to be the host for the semifinals for both men’s and women’s soccer, which is great for us,” Rose Bowl General Manager Jens Weiden told Justin Chapman on the Pasadena Media show “Pasadena Monthly with Justin Chapman” earlier this year. 

This will mark the third time Pasadena has played a role in the Summer Olympics. The City previously hosted Summer Olympics events in 1932 and 1984. 

The agreement outlines the responsibilities and commitments between the City and the OCOG, addressing areas such as public services, reimbursement for City expenses, and the overall framework for collaboration. 

Key provisions of the agreement include the establishment of an Enhanced City Resources Master Agreement (ECRMA), which will define the enhanced services needed for the Games, such as public safety and traffic management. The financial details of these services will be negotiated in supplemental agreements, with reimbursement rates yet to be determined. 

While the exact fiscal impact on Pasadena remains uncertain, the City has expressed confidence in its ability to recover costs associated with the Games. However, officials noted that successful cost recovery will depend on factors like the financial outcome of the Games and the solvency of the OCOG. 

Other venue cities, including Long Beach and Inglewood, have already executed similar agreements, while Santa Monica continues negotiations. Pasadena’s staff has worked to secure contract modifications that allow for more City authority and operational flexibility. 

The Games Agreement also includes provisions related to transportation, public safety, and sustainability, emphasizing a commitment to a responsible and secure event. Additionally, the City will not impose new admissions or parking taxes related to the Games.