OKC City Council backs hosting Canoe Slalom, Softball for LA28 Olympics

The Oklahoma City Council unanimously approved a resolution supporting the city’s role in hosting Canoe Slalom and Softball during the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. 

The Los Angeles City Council approved a revised LA28 venue plan on March 28, moving Canoe Slalom and Softball to established competition sites in OKC. Both sports will take place in OKC facilities that regularly host major national and international events. 

“This was our first opportunity as a City Council to state our official support for staging two sports during the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics,” Mayor David Holt said. “This resolution of commitment is the first of many official actions the council will take over the next three years relative to this historic event. I’m grateful to the City Council for their unanimous vote.” 

The resolution outlines several commitments from the city: 

1. Use of city facilities—OKC will provide venues as needed, including the whitewater and softball facilities, the OKC Convention Center, Scissortail Park, Paycom Center and other public properties. 
2. Facility upkeep—The city and OKC Public Property Authority will manage necessary maintenance and upgrades to the whitewater and softball venues in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. 
3. City services—OKC will deliver services such as police, fire, EMS, transit, traffic management and sanitation. 
4. Financial guarantee—The city will arrange a $34.5 million financial guarantee with partners, to be paid to LA28 only if OKC does not meet its hosting responsibilities. 
5. Regulatory measures—The city will adopt any ordinances or enforcement measures required to meet LA28 hosting standards. 
6. Legal agreements—OKC will enter into agreements, contracts, leases and other legal arrangements necessary for hosting. 
7. Equity and sustainability—The city will support anti-discrimination efforts and prioritize sustainable practices throughout planning and operations. 

RIVERSPORT has welcomed global Canoe Slalom and rowing events, including World Cups and Olympic trials, while the softball stadium at Devon Park hosts the NCAA Women’s College World Series and international championships each year. Both venues draw athletes, fans and spending from around the world, making them key contributors to the city’s tourism and economic growth. 

OKC is solidifying its status as a rising hub for international sports, with recent events showcasing its capability to host world-class competitions. As LA28 approaches, the city stands well-prepared to take on a prominent role in delivering Canoe Slalom and Softball events on the Olympic stage.