The International Olympic Committee has confirmed that equestrian sport will be included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

The confirmation for inclusion in the LA 2028 Initial Sports Program took place Feb. 3 during the IOC session in Beijing (China) and followed the announcement by the IOC in December 2021 that equestrian was amongst the 28 sports proposed.

FEI/Christophe Taniere Photo

“We are delighted with this confirmation, which is a glowing endorsement of the valuable contribution and legacy that equestrian sport brings to the Olympic movement,” Fédération Equestre Internationale President Ingmar De Vos said in a press release.

“However, this is only a first step. The equestrian disciplines for LA 2028 will be decided mid-2023 and the equestrian events and the quota for LA will only be decided after Paris 2024.”

Universality, integrity and fairness, gender equality, and popularity were highlighted as key requirements in the evaluation criteria to determine the disciplines and events for the program. Athlete safety, environmental sustainability and keeping the sport relevant to youth also were reiterated as significant factors in the decision making process.

“We are committed to deliver successful sport at the Olympics and are passionate about universality and growing our sport to reach new audiences and develop talent around the world,” De Vos said.

“Youth participation and development play a key role in this process, and will ensure we have a diverse and inclusive equestrian community for young people to grow, progress and strive for Olympic greatness.

“The youth are the future and with equestrian sport in the LA 2028 program, a youth-focused Games, it’s an added incentive for our ambitious young athletes to prepare to showcase their talent on the biggest world stage.

“Consolidation of our place in the LA 2028 Olympic program will keep the equestrian community strong and resilient in this competitive sporting landscape.”