The Los Angeles 2028 Olympic road race route is set to highlight Southern California’s iconic geography, featuring a start at Venice Beach and a finish at the Griffith Observatory. While official course maps remain under development by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and local organizers, the selection of these landmarks provides the first clear indication of the race’s profile and the logistical challenges awaiting cyclists. According to the LA28 Organizing Committee, these venues are part of a broader effort to utilize existing landmarks to minimize new construction while showcasing the city’s diverse urban and coastal terrain.
As a sports journalist who has covered international cycling for over 13 years, I recognize that the transition from the flat, sea-level terrain of the Pacific coast to the elevation profile of the Santa Monica Mountains will determine the race’s tactical nature. The inclusion of the Griffith Observatory as a finish line suggests a climb that will test the endurance of the world’s top road racers. This route selection aligns with the IOC’s “New Norm” policy, which encourages host cities to prioritize sustainability and the use of existing infrastructure for Olympic events.
Geographic Challenges of the LA28 Cycling Course
The proposed route connects two of Los Angeles’ most recognizable points, creating a trajectory that moves from the coastal plains into the hills of Griffith Park. Venice Beach, a site of global renown, offers a wide starting corridor, but the path toward the finish will require navigating the dense urban sprawl of the Los Angeles basin. According to official LA28 venue planning documents, the integration of these sites is designed to reduce the need for temporary road closures outside of the primary race corridor.
For professional cyclists, the final approach to the Griffith Observatory is the most significant technical detail. The observatory sits at an elevation of approximately 1,134 feet (346 meters) above sea level, accessible via winding roads that offer limited passing opportunities. This setup mirrors the challenging climbs often found in the classic one-day races of Europe, albeit in a vastly different climate. With average July temperatures in Los Angeles often exceeding 80°F (27°C), as tracked by the National Weather Service, heat management will be a critical factor for teams during the race.
Logistics and Urban Impact
Organizing a road race through one of the world’s most populous metropolitan areas requires extensive collaboration between local law enforcement, the California Department of Transportation, and the Los Angeles Department of Transportation. While the specific road closures have not been finalized, the LA28 committee has emphasized that they are working to ensure the event minimizes disruption to daily city operations. The route is expected to pass through several distinct neighborhoods, providing a televised backdrop that spans from the Pacific Ocean to the Hollywood Hills.
The use of existing infrastructure is a cornerstone of the LA28 financial model. By avoiding the construction of a dedicated cycling velodrome or a purpose-built road course, organizers aim to keep event costs within the projected budget of $6.9 billion. This approach follows the precedent set by previous host cities that have successfully integrated road cycling into urban environments, such as the 2012 London Games, which utilized city streets to create a high-visibility event for spectators.
What Happens Next in the Planning Process
The next phase of development involves the final certification of the course by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). This process includes detailed safety inspections of the road surfaces, corner radiuses, and the width of the final climb to the observatory. According to the UCI’s official regulations, any course intended for Olympic competition must meet strict safety standards, including specialized barriers and crowd control measures at high-speed corners.
Official route maps and technical guides are not expected to be released until closer to the 2028 Games, as organizers continue to coordinate with city officials regarding infrastructure improvements. Fans and stakeholders can monitor the LA28 official website for periodic updates on venue finalized plans and ticketing information as the Games approach. We will continue to track these developments as more technical specifications become public.
What are your thoughts on the inclusion of the Griffith Observatory as a finish? Does this elevation profile favor the climbers or the classicists? Join the conversation below and share your predictions for the 2028 Olympic road race.
Related reading