USOPC Receives Visa Assurances from White House for LA28 Games

The United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) has received "significant reassurances" from the White House regarding visas for the Los Angeles 2028 Games, according to Chair Gene Sykes. This announcement comes after an internal memo raised concerns about potential travel restrictions under the Trump administration.

The memo, released last month, identified 41 countries that could face partial or complete visa suspensions. Such restrictions could significantly complicate the hosting of the Games, given the expected influx of thousands of athletes, coaches, support staff, and tourists.

USOPC leadership met with legislators and members of the U.S. President's administration to discuss various topics related to U.S. sport. Sykes stated that the administration is committed to ensuring a successful experience for all Americans, athletes, and visitors from around the world. The administration understands the significance of hosting the Olympic Games and has provided substantial assurances regarding their collaboration with the USOPC to streamline the visa process for athletes and their teams.

One topic that was not discussed was the issue of visas for qualified transgender athletes. This omission follows President Trump's previous statements regarding the exclusion of transgender competitors from the LA28 Games. In February, Trump signed an executive order that aimed to exclude transgender girls and women from women's sports, which contradicted international standards.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has consistently avoided implementing a universal rule on transgender participation in the Games. Instead, the IOC instructed international federations in 2021 to develop their own guidelines. Sykes emphasized that the focus of the visa discussions was to secure maximum support from the administration and the State Department, and the reassurances received have been extensive.