The Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games will kick off with a bold and historic move as the women’s 100m final headlines the opening day of competition. Organisers have reshaped the athletics schedule to “open with a bang,” marking the first time in Olympic history that the prestigious sprint final will take place on day one.
All three rounds of the women’s 100m – heats, semifinals, and final – will be contested on the same day, a rare format that has been enthusiastically embraced by leading athletes. American sprint star Sha’Carri Richardson described the move as proof that “track and field is having its moment,” while Britain’s Dina Asher-Smith called it an “exciting opportunity” that celebrates a century of women’s participation in Olympic athletics.
The LA28 organising committee and World Athletics confirmed that extensive consultations were held with sprinters before finalizing the schedule. Athletes welcomed the chance to prepare for the new format, with many expressing excitement about competing in front of a packed crowd at the historic LA Memorial Coliseum.
The updated schedule aims to maximize opportunities for athletes to double up in multiple events, including the 100m and 200m, as well as middle-distance combinations like the 800m and 1500m. Athletics competition will span 10 days, featuring the debut of a mixed 100m relay, alongside traditional road events in the final days.
The changes reflect a balance between innovation and tradition, with the men’s marathon set to close the Games as usual. However, the new lineup may affect some athletes’ event choices. Notably, the overlap between the 400m and 400m hurdles could make it difficult for Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone to compete in both events.
Traditionally, swimming has opened the Summer Games, but it will begin in the second week this time as SoFi Stadium hosts both the swimming events and the opening ceremony.
The LA28 Games will feature 51 Olympic sports at 49 venues, with around 14 million tickets available for sale beginning in April 2026. Organisers have assured fans that there will be no use of controversial dynamic pricing systems, aiming instead for fair and accessible ticketing for all.
This groundbreaking start sets the tone for a Games focused on inclusivity, innovation, and celebration of women’s sporting excellence.
