Olympic Stadium Plans Under Pressure Ahead of LA 2028
As cricket prepares for its historic return to the Olympic stage in 2028, a governance crisis within USA Cricket (USAC) threatens to derail key infrastructure plans and cast uncertainty over the sport’s future in the United States.
A Crumbling Partnership
On August 23, 2025, USA Cricket terminated its 50-year commercial agreement with American Cricket Enterprises (ACE), the strategic partner behind Major League Cricket (MLC). USAC cited repeated breaches in financial commitments, infrastructure development, and governance standards. ACE, however, has rejected the allegations, calling the termination “unlawful” and asserting full compliance with its obligations.
The fallout has sent shockwaves through the American cricket ecosystem, raising concerns about the viability of MLC, Minor League Cricket (MiLC), and preparations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Stadium Spotlight: Fairplex in Pomona
At the center of the Olympic cricket vision is a proposed stadium at Fairplex in Pomona, located 30 miles east of Los Angeles. The venue is expected to host Olympic matches and serve as a permanent home for the Knight Riders franchise, backed by Indian Premier League investors.
Stadium Plans Include:
- A permanent playing square and drainage system
- Training nets, floodlights, pavilion, and media center
- Temporary seating for 6,000–8,000 spectators during the Olympics
- Potential readiness for MLC matches by 2026 or 2027
However, the stadium deal between Knight Riders and Fairplex remains unsigned. With USAC’s governance in question, private investors are reportedly growing wary, and the International Cricket Council (ICC) may be forced to intervene, though no emergency meeting has been scheduled.
Governance on Thin Ice
USAC narrowly avoided suspension by the ICC earlier this year and was given three months to resolve internal governance issues. One month has already passed, and board elections remain pending. If USAC fails to comply, it risks:
- Suspension or expulsion from the ICC
- Loss of funding and international playing opportunities
- Disqualification from Olympic participation despite being the host nation
Global Olympic Frustrations
Cricket’s Olympic format will feature only six teams per gender, sparking frustration among cricketing nations. Qualification will be based on regional rankings and a global qualifier. Asia may only send one automatic qualifier, likely India, leaving Pakistan to compete for a spot. This setup could prevent a high-profile India–Pakistan clash, a significant draw for global audiences.
Associate nations, which hoped Olympic inclusion would boost funding and visibility, now face limited opportunities and growing disillusionment.
What’s Next?
With less than three years until the 2028 Games, the promise of cricket’s Olympic return is under threat. The governance crisis, stadium uncertainty, and limited global participation have created a perfect storm. Whether USAC and ACE can reconcile or whether ICC steps in will determine if cricket’s Olympic comeback becomes a triumph or a missed opportunity.
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