Columbus is about to make Olympic history.
For the first time ever, Ohio will host official Olympic competition, and it’s happening right here in the capital city.
Columbus and the Columbus Crew have been selected to host nine matches during the LA28 Olympic Football (Soccer) Tournament, bringing some of the world’s best players to town in July 2028.
The matches will include eight men’s and women’s group stage games, scheduled for July 10-11, July 13-14, and July 16, along with a men’s quarterfinal on July 20. Kickoff times and competing teams will be announced closer to the event.
Columbus is one of just a handful of cities across the country chosen to host matches, joining destinations like New York, Nashville, St. Louis, San Diego, San José, and Los Angeles.
That kind of company says a lot about where Columbus stands as a sports city right now.
“The Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games selecting Columbus for nine LA28 Olympic Football (Soccer) Tournament matches shows the magnitude of collaboration with civic, state and business leaders to create world-class venues,” said Haslam Sports Group President David Jenkins. “Columbus continues to prove its position as a destination for soccer at the highest levels of competition.”
And if you’ve been to a Crew match lately, that probably doesn’t come as a surprise.
“With nine LA28 Olympic Football (Soccer) Tournament matches, we have a unique opportunity to showcase our incredible soccer venues, Columbus and its passion for men’s and women’s soccer,” said Crew President of Business Operations Mary Shepro. “For nearly two weeks, fans from across the globe will come together through the power of sports while enjoying everything our city has to offer beyond the pitch.”
The tournament itself will actually kick off before the Opening Ceremony, starting on July 10, 2028.
Matches will be played across seven U.S. cities, with teams moving across the country as the competition progresses toward the finals in California.
For Columbus, it’s more than just a few games. It’s a chance to welcome international visitors, show off the city, and cement its reputation as a major destination for soccer.
“Hosting nine LA28 Olympic Football (Soccer) matches is a truly historic moment for Columbus as a city and a sports destination,” said Greater Columbus Sports Commission President and CEO Linda Logan. “We are eagerly looking forward to showing why Columbus is a top tier market for hosting major events.”
If you’re already thinking about snagging tickets, you’re not alone. Ticket sales for Olympic events are expected to begin in April, and fans can register now for a chance to purchase through the LA28 ticket draw.
It may be a couple of years away, but one thing’s for sure. The road to the Olympics is officially running through Columbus.
