Rugby’s Inclusion Bid for Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Committee

Rugby’s future as an Olympic sport will be decided this week, as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) gathers in Mumbai, India, for a vote that could cement the sport’s place at the Los Angeles 2028 Games. The IOC executive board previously recommended cricket, baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse, and also squash for inclusion, but rugby sevens’ current status is less certain. This decision is vital for the sport’s global development.

While rugby sevens was present at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 (held in 2021) Olympic Games, its inclusion for Los Angeles 2028 is not guaranteed. USA Rugby, as the host nation’s governing body, has a vested interest in seeing the sport continue its Olympic journey.

Olympic Sport Trajectory

Rugby sevens made its return to the Olympic program following a 92-year absence, a significant moment for the game’s expansion. The move was widely seen as a boost to growing rugby in non-traditional markets and increasing its visibility, particularly given the success of events like the Rugby World Cup.

The 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, for instance, proved a massive draw, with fans filling stadiums and viewership reaching significant numbers globally. This kind of widespread appeal is what Olympic committees look for in potential sports. The tournament's success provides a strong argument for maintaining rugby's presence on the world stage as an Olympic sport.

World Rugby, the sport's global governing body, has actively campaigned for continued Olympic inclusion. They emphasize the sport's dynamic nature, its global reach, and the opportunities it provides for gender equality, particularly through its women’s rugby coverage. This aligns with the IOC’s broader objectives for diversity and engagement.

USA Rugby's Stake in Olympic Inclusion

For USA Rugby, the implications of this IOC vote are substantial. Hosting an Olympic rugby tournament would bring significant financial investment, increased media exposure, and a boost to participation numbers across the country. The sport has seen growth in the US, but Olympic status could accelerate this considerably.

The 2028 Games in Los Angeles offer a unique opportunity to capitalize on the home-turf advantage, potentially igniting a new generation of rugby players and fans. Losing this opportunity would be a setback for the sport’s ambitions in the American market.

Cricket, a sport with a massive global following, is widely expected to secure its place, which would bring a new dynamic to the Olympic program. The competition for spots is fierce, with each sport needing to present a compelling case for its value to the Games and the Olympic movement.

Looking Ahead Beyond 2028

Should rugby sevens secure its place for Los Angeles 2028, it would solidify its long-term future within the Olympic movement. This would allow World Rugby and national unions, including USA Rugby, to plan with greater certainty, investing in development pathways and high-performance programs knowing an Olympic pinnacle awaits.

A favorable decision would also reinforce rugby’s image as a mainstream sport and provide further impetus for its growth, particularly in regions where it is still emerging. The Olympic platform offers unparalleled global reach, making the IOC's decision a pivotal moment for the sport’s trajectory over the next decade.