Atlanta’s Olympic history is getting another chapter: the city will be the first U.S. stop for the 2028 Olympic torch relay before the flame begins a nationwide trip to Los Angeles.
Local leaders and LA28 organizers announced the plan Tuesday at Atlanta City Hall. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported that the relay will pass through all 50 states for the first time in Olympic history.
The flame returns to the city that hosted in 1996
Atlanta hosted the Summer Olympics in 1996, when Muhammad Ali lit the cauldron in one of the Games’ defining moments. In 2028, Los Angeles will host the Summer Games, and Atlanta will begin the U.S. leg of the torch journey.
LA28 organizers said the relay will be the most ambitious in U.S. history. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens said the city was proud to carry the flame in 1996 and will be proud to welcome it back.
Summerhill wants to be part of the route
The announcement also renewed attention on Atlanta’s existing Olympic cauldron in Summerhill. Neighborhood leaders have argued the structure should remain there and said the 2028 torch route should include the community because of its direct connection to the 1996 Games.
Organizers have not yet announced Atlanta’s exact relay route or date. Those details will determine which neighborhoods and landmarks become part of the city’s 2028 Olympic moment.
