Why Isn't Baseball in the 2024 Olympics But in the 2028 Games?

As an American baseball fan, it can be disappointing to learn that baseball will not be included in the 2024 Paris Olympics. However, it will make a comeback in the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Here are some reasons behind this decision:

  • Host City's Choice: The International Olympic Committee (IOC) gives host cities the authority to choose sports that align with their culture and infrastructure. Paris preferred sports with higher popularity in France, such as breaking and skateboarding.

  • Olympic Agenda 2020 Reforms: The IOC introduced reforms to make the Olympics more youth-oriented and sustainable. Baseball, with its relatively long game duration and large number of players, did not fit this new vision.

  • Space and Budget: Hosting baseball requires significant space for stadiums and facilities. Paris faced challenges in finding suitable venues within its compact urban environment. Additionally, the cost of organizing the sport can be high.

  • Lack of Global Participation: While baseball has a strong following in the United States, Japan, and a few other countries, it is not widely played globally. The IOC prioritizes sports with broad international appeal.

  • Inclusion of New Sports: The IOC aims to introduce new and emerging sports to the Olympics to enhance diversity and cater to younger audiences. Breaking and skateboarding, for instance, have gained popularity among youth worldwide.

  • Why is baseball not in the 2024 Olympics? It was not selected by the host city, Paris, due to factors such as popularity and infrastructure constraints.
  • Will baseball be in the 2028 Olympics? Yes, it will return in the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
  • What sports are replacing baseball in the 2024 Olympics? Breaking and skateboarding.
  • Why did the IOC introduce reforms in Olympic Agenda 2020? To make the Olympics more youth-oriented and sustainable.
  • What are the criteria for sports to be included in the Olympics? Popularity, global participation, and alignment with the host city's culture and infrastructure.
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