The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has expressed confidence that the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games will avoid the immigration difficulties that have affected the recent FIFA World Cup. This assurance comes amid concerns raised by restrictive entry policies that impacted officials and athletes ahead of the World Cup, including the denial of entry for Omar Artan, Somalia’s top referee, and visa issues faced by Iranian officials and teams.

Kirsty Coventry, IOC president, outlined that a specialized taskforce is collaborating closely with the United States Olympic Committee to address potential obstacles related to visas and border access well in advance of the LA Games. “We are monitoring the situation daily,” Coventry told reporters, emphasizing the lessons being drawn from the current challenges facing the World Cup. She expressed optimism that these preparations would ensure smoother processes for athletes and their entourages in 2028.

The World Cup’s visa complications exemplified broader difficulties with U.S. immigration controls. Despite FIFA’s strong ties to the Trump administration, it did not prevent the relocation of Iran’s training camp from Arizona to Mexico nor the denial of several Iranian officials’ visas, underscoring the complexities of managing international participants' entry during major sporting events.

In addition to addressing logistical concerns, Coventry acknowledged ongoing criticism of the IOC’s stance against direct athlete payments for Olympic competition. She reiterated her position that athletes should not receive prize money at the Olympics, contrasting this with standard practices at continental games, international federation events, and World Cups. However, she indicated the IOC is exploring alternative methods to support athletes more effectively.

Coventry discussed efforts to enhance the financial and developmental support available to Olympians, highlighting initiatives such as expanding Olympic solidarity scholarships and seeking innovative avenues for athlete assistance. “We have a broader responsibility to try and find ways to directly support every Olympic athlete,” she said, emphasizing the IOC’s commitment to improving conditions for participants beyond prize money.

With two years remaining before the LA Games, the IOC’s proactive approach aims to mitigate risks seen in recent international events and strengthen the support framework for athletes competing on the world’s biggest sports stage.