Los Angeles’ preparations for the 2028 Summer Olympics appear to be continuing uninterrupted despite scrutiny surrounding LA28 Chair Casey Wasserman, with the organization’s chief executive, Reynold Hoover, stating that sponsors have not raised concerns about his continued leadership. The reassurance comes after Wasserman’s emails to Ghislaine Maxwell, an accomplice of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, became public, prompting calls for his resignation, including from Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.
Hoover publicly backed Wasserman on Monday, emphasizing the stability of the organization’s commercial performance as evidence of continued confidence. LA28 has already exceeded US$2 billion in sponsorship revenue and is poised to announce another top-tier partner, according to reports. This financial strength, Hoover argues, demonstrates the effectiveness of the current leadership structure.
Commercial Momentum Amid Controversy
The LA28 CEO stated that during a recent meeting with a potential sponsor in Dallas, the Wasserman controversy wasn’t even brought up. “No one is asking about it,” Hoover said, according to SportsPro. This sentiment was echoed in reports from Reuters and Sports Business Daily, which both reported Hoover’s unwavering support for Wasserman.
Wasserman has initiated the process of selling his eponymous global agency, retaining Moelis & Co to oversee the sale in light of the revelations surrounding his communications with Maxwell. Despite this, Hoover confirmed there has been “no talk about finding a replacement” and no disruption to the day-to-day operations of LA28. The board’s decision to stand by Wasserman has been a key factor in maintaining this stability.
Bass’s Call for Resignation Contrasts with LA28’s Position
While Hoover and the LA28 board have publicly supported Wasserman, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has called for his resignation. Hoover acknowledged being “a little surprised” by Bass’s statement but emphasized that the board had already taken a firm position. “Appear, that’s her opinion,” Hoover said, “But she also said that the LA28 board has taken a position and is supporting Casey, so there’s nothing more to really be said on it.”
Hoover, a West Point graduate and former lieutenant general in the Army, has led the Los Angeles Olympics organization for the last 21 months. He highlighted that preparation for the Games has continued without interruption during the recent controversy. The Los Angeles Times reported that five million people have already registered for the chance to purchase tickets for the 2028 Games, further demonstrating public enthusiasm.
The Trump administration’s support for the 2028 Summer Games has also been secured, with Hoover stating that no concessions were demanded in return for federal financial support, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Looking Ahead
The continued backing of LA28’s leadership and the organization’s strong commercial performance suggest the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics remain on track despite the ongoing controversy surrounding its chair. The focus will now be on finalizing sponsorship deals and continuing preparations for the Games, with the next major milestone being the continued rollout of ticket registration and event planning. The situation remains fluid, and further developments regarding Wasserman’s position and the agency sale are expected in the coming months.
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