Santa Monica Exits 2028 Olympic Venue Talks

Negotiations between the LA28 Olympic organizing committee and Santa Monica officials to host the 2028 Olympic beach volleyball competition have concluded without an agreement. Santa Monica was initially chosen as the venue due to its historical significance in the sport, but financial studies revealed that hosting the event would result in a $1.45 million deficit, whereas not hosting could generate a $10.65 million profit from tourism. As a result, LA28 is now considering alternate locations, with Huntington Beach and Long Beach emerging as potential hosts. Santa Monica may still be involved in the Olympics by hosting hospitality houses or other non-competitive events. The decision comes as LA28 also struggles to secure the Honda Center for indoor volleyball. The organizing committee is expected to present a new venue proposal to the International Olympic Committee soon.