Olympics-Hollywood Factor Will Help LA Deliver Best Games Ever, Says Boss – Reuters

By Julien Pretot

PARIS – While Los Angeles may not match the iconic landmarks showcased in the Paris Olympics, organizers of the LA28 Games are optimistic that the unique charm of Hollywood and the city’s distinct identity will elevate the event in four years.

The Paris Games captured the admiration of fans, athletes, sponsors, and broadcasters alike. LA28 CEO Reynold Hoover commended the French organizers for hosting an "incredible Games."

Hoover, a former U.S. Army lieutenant general who came out of retirement to lead the upcoming summer Games, acknowledged that there are aspects where Los Angeles may fall short compared to Paris, yet he insists the city has much to offer.

"Paris boasts amazing venues. Every location here is iconic, and there’s no competing with beach volleyball or blind football played in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower," Hoover stated in an interview. "However, every city has its own personality and something unique to contribute to the Olympics. In LA, we have our own iconic sporting venues like the Coliseum and the Rose Bowl, along with exceptional world-class athletic facilities."

"Moreover, LA offers diversity, culture, sport, entertainment, and storytelling, which will be evident when visitors come to experience the city. It’s all about our incredible capacity to bring people together and unite the world through sport."

With venues in close proximity to one another, efficient transportation, and events near stunning city landmarks, Paris 2024 has set a formidable standard.

Nevertheless, Hoover believes LA can surpass it. After all, Hollywood has shaped the Olympics in 1932 and 1984.

"Hollywood is magical. When people think of LA and the LA28 Games, they think of the influence Hollywood has had on the Olympics and the legacies it produced," the 63-year-old remarked. "We aim to raise the bar just as Paris has done for us, and set new expectations for Brisbane in 2032."

While he remained tight-lipped about the plans for LA’s opening ceremony, especially after the spectacular event along the Seine, Hoover reminisced about the surprise at the 1984 ceremony.

“Look at 1984, with Rocket Man—who knows, maybe we’ll bring back Rocket Man,” he said, smiling.

During the 1984 opening ceremony, William Suitor amazed audiences by flying across the stadium with a hydrogen peroxide-powered rocket belt.

As the U.S. prepares for a presidential election in November, Hoover is undeterred about potential impacts on the Games. "Just as France had snap elections before the Olympics… I’m focused on delivering the best Games ever. It will be the biggest Olympics."

Given Los Angeles’s larger area compared to Paris and more widely dispersed venues, transport will present challenges. "We’re starting to address this now with ideas for sustainability, aiming to improve efficiency in transporting attendees and athletes to and from the Games," he noted.