The Special Committee on International Sporting Events hosts its first informational hearing.
The Senate’s Special Committee on International Sporting Events was established in April 2025 to help oversee preparations for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games (LA28). Senator Ben Allen was appointed Committee Chair, alongside Vice Chair Senator Durazo.
The Committee held its first hearing in July to provide an overview of the upcoming LA28 preparations and identify which issues need greater support and attention. Panelists included:
- General Reynold Hoover, CEO, LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games
- Paul Krekorian, Executive Director, Office of Major Events, City of Los Angeles
- Fesia Davenport, CEO, County of Los Angeles
- Ryan Becker, Senior VP of Communications & Strategy, Visit California
Panelists pose for a group photo after the Special Committee’s first informational hearing.
LA28 Impact and Sustainability
Earlier reports have estimated the Games could generate up to $18 billion in economic output, provide $700 million in tax revenues, and create nearly 100,000 jobs across industries such as hospitality, construction, security, and transportation.
Current plans include the use of over 40 venues to support 800+ competitions across 36 Olympic and 23 Paralympic sports. The Impact and Sustainability Plan highlights a commitment to economic development that benefits communities across the region, as well as an upfront $160 million investment in youth sports through PlayLA that will seed youth engagement in sports for generations.
The Sustainability Plan also maintains a mission to lean on existing or pre-planned infrastructure and clean energy in order to leverage economic efficiencies and minimize carbon emissions.
State, City, and Federal Support
The Committee toured numerous flagship venues to understand the various levels of support that are needed to help these events succeed. To ensure the State is ready, the Legislature provided a CEQA exemption for LA28 temporary development, and has allowed Los Angeles to temporarily use HOV lanes as part of the designated Games Route Network.
LA28 has been designated as a National Special Security Event, and has received a $1 billion commitment for security purposes from the federal government. The City of Los Angeles has committed to the first $270 million installment of overruns for the Games, and the State of California has committed to the second $270 million installment. However, the Games are expected and are on track to stay within their budget.
