The Paris Olympics have come to a close, with Team USA clinching a gold medal in women’s basketball on the final day of competition. While traditional sports like swimming and gymnastics stole the spotlight, the introduction of breaking brought a fresh and unique energy to the Games. This new sport captivated audiences with its dynamic performances and impressive displays of athleticism.
Breaking made its Olympic debut in Paris, with 33 breakers from 16 nations competing for medals. The B-Girls and B-Boys divisions showcased their skills over two days of intense competition, leaving fans in awe of the talent on display. Despite its popularity, breaking will not be included in the program for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, along with boxing, which is currently on provisional status due to corruption allegations surrounding the International Boxing Association.
Looking ahead to the 2028 Olympics, six new sports will be added to the program, including flag football and squash. Flag football will feature both men’s and women’s divisions, with teams competing on a 50-yard field in a fast-paced, high-energy format. Squash, a racket sport played in a four-walled court, will finally make its Olympic debut after multiple attempts by the World Squash Federation to include it in the Games.
In addition to the new sports, baseball and softball will make their return to the Olympics after being absent from the 2024 Paris Games. Softball will be played in Oklahoma City, marking a departure from the traditional Olympic venues. Lacrosse will also be added as an official medal sport, with 6-on-6 tournaments set to take place in Los Angeles. Cricket, which was last contested in the Olympics in 1900, will also make a comeback, with teams vying for the chance to win gold in this historic sport.
Furthermore, skateboarding, sport climbing, and surfing will transition from optional sports to permanent events starting with the 2028 Olympics. These additions reflect the evolving landscape of sports and the IOC’s commitment to keeping the Olympic program fresh and exciting for athletes and fans alike.
As we bid farewell to the Paris Olympics and look forward to the 2028 Games in Los Angeles, the changes to the sporting program promise to bring new thrills, challenges, and opportunities for athletes to shine on the world stage. With a diverse lineup of sports and disciplines, the future of the Olympics looks brighter than ever, offering something for everyone to enjoy and celebrate.
