Coe urges LA28 to balance government cooperation with operational independence

Sebastian Coe, the head of World Athletics and former organiser of the 2012 London Olympics, has advised the Los Angeles 2028 (LA28) organising committee to maintain close working relationships with the US administration. Speaking to journalists at the European championships, Coe emphasised that successful delivery of the Games relies on cooperation with key government ministries, specifically Treasury, Defence, and Homeland Security.

Coe, who oversaw the London Games widely credited as one of the best prepared Summer events in recent history, stated that LA28 organisers must accept working shoulder-to-shoulder with the US government. He noted that while politicians should be involved in the process, they must not be in control of the Games' delivery, drawing a distinction between necessary collaboration and operational interference.

The advice comes against a backdrop of recent tensions between US politics and international sport. During the co-hosted Football World Cup, concerns were raised regarding the relationship between US President Donald Trump and FIFA head Gianni Infantino. Infantino, a frequent visitor to the White House during the tournament buildup, faced criticism after FIFA suspended a red card for US player Folarin Balogun, a decision Trump claimed was influenced by a direct phone call.

Infantino had previously awarded Trump a newly created FIFA peace prize at the World Cup draw in Washington, a move that drew mockery. The incident highlighted the complex dynamics between political figures and sporting governing bodies, underscoring the delicate balance Coe suggests LA28 must navigate.

President Trump is expected to remain in power by the time the LA28 Games are scheduled to take place in July 2028. Coe’s comments suggest that the organising committee will need to establish clear protocols for engagement with federal departments to ensure the event proceeds without political overreach.

The LA28 Games represent a significant test for Olympic governance in the United States. By referencing the London model, Coe is urging local organisers to prioritise institutional stability and inter-agency cooperation while safeguarding the autonomy of the Games’ operational delivery.