If you think track and field makes for good photographs, wait until you see it set against the landmarks of the world’s biggest cities.
In August, Zürich’s Diamond League Final offered a glimpse of what track and field can look like beyond the stadium. A handful of events–men’s pole vault, women’s high jump, men’s long jump and both men’s and women’s shot put–were staged at Sechseläutenplatz, the city’s largest town square, directly in front of the Opera House. Eight thousand fans packed the plaza to witness world-class performances, including Mondo Duplantis soaring to his fifth straight Diamond League title, framed by a dramatic backdrop.
According to The Guardian, the same idea could soon be adopted at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
World Athletics president Sebastian Coe confirmed he has been in talks with L.A. organizers about bringing select disciplines outside the main Olympic Stadium. “I want to see more events out of the stadium,” said Coe. “We wanted to see more of our events outside of the stadium in Paris. [The organizers] were keen at first, and then, I think they looked at the cost and all sorts of things. But if you do it properly, I think it’s additive, I really do. And I know L.A. is more open to taking some of our disciplines outside of the stadium.”
Prominent landmarks and increased visibility
Such events could deliver unforgettable action shots. Just as Zürich’s Opera House set the stage for dramatic jumps and throws, Los Angeles offers its own catalogue of iconic backdrops: Walt Disney Concert Hall downtown, the Venice Beach boardwalk and especially Hollywood Boulevard–though closing off such high-profile sites could present major logistical challenges.
Of course, long-distance races like the marathon and race walks are already set to unfold on the city streets. The free standing space, instead of fixed seating, at these events, encourages more fans and locals to gather and watch, helping grow visibility around the sport.
Coe pushes for cross-country at the 2030 Winter Olympics
Last December, Canadian Running reported that the World Athletics president was also pushing for cross-country running and cyclocross to be added into the Winter Olympic program to attract athletes and viewers from regions of the world that do not have snow.
Coe still emphasizes there’s a “good chance” the move could be set in motion in time for the 2030 Games in the French Alps, with provisional plans already in place for cross-country and cyclocross to share the same course.
World Athletics president pushing cross country for 2030 Olympics
“I’ve always wanted to see cross-country back in for all sorts of reasons,” Coe said. “Some are emotional. But it also gives Africa a proper presence in the Winter Games, which, if we are being honest, it doesn’t really have.”
