LA28 Addresses Concerns About $5,000 Olympic Ticket Prices

LA28 Responds to Public Concern Over Olympic Ticket Prices

LOS ANGELES – As ticket sales for the LA28 Summer Games opened to the global public, organizers are facing significant backlash from Southern Californians who express disappointment over high prices and limited ticket availability. Many local fans have reported feeling "duped" after encountering costs that exceed initial expectations.

On April 9, the much-anticipated launch known as "Drop 1" commenced at 10 a.m. PT. However, LA28 Senior Vice President of Revenue, Allison Katz Mayfield, confirmed that no new inventory was released for this phase, complicating matters for global buyers competing for leftover tickets not claimed during the locals-only presale.

“The locals had the best access to the widest breadth of tickets,” Mayfield remarked in an interview, noting that the hundreds of thousands of $28 tickets offered during the presale were quickly snatched up. Currently, while LA28 claims that 30% of remaining tickets cost less than $200, many fans report that marquee events, including the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, primarily feature premium seats priced upwards of $5,000.

Additionally, a 24% service fee is included in ticket prices, covering various administrative costs, though this fee is already factored into the displayed "all-in" price.

The Drop 1 sales period will remain open until April 19, allowing selected participants to purchase up to 12 tickets for Olympic sessions and 12 for football tournament events.

Despite the frustrations, Mayfield emphasized that more opportunities for affordable ticket purchases will occur later this year. Fans not selected in the initial draw will automatically be eligible for subsequent ticket drops. For those interested in the Paralympic Games, further registration and ticket options will debut in 2027.

Mayfield cautioned fans against purchasing tickets through resale platforms, highlighting the risk of encountering unverified listings. “If you’re seeing tickets on resale platforms in 2026, they are not verified… they may be speculative,” she warned.

Upcoming Key Dates:

• April 2026: Launch of "Drop 1" for globally registered fans (ends April 19).
• Late 2026: Additional ticket draws and inventory releases.
• 2027: Official launch of ticket resale program and Paralympic ticket draw.
• July 14, 2028: Opening Ceremony at the 2028 Stadium in Inglewood.

Organizers continue to monitor public sentiment and adjust strategies as the event approaches, aiming to ensure accessibility while managing expectations regarding ticket pricing.