LA28 Olympics Welcomes Weightlifting After IOC Gives Green Light Amidst Introducing New Anti-doping and Governance Reforms

While the Los Angeles Olympics to be held in 2028 may still be 5 years away, the anticipation is already building among supporters. The addition of five new spots to the 32 existing sports has been the major reason for the excitement. One among these sports is weightlifting. It was included in the Olympic charter of 2028 as per the recent IOC meeting held in Mumbai. 

However, the IOC also introduced stringent anti-doping and governance reforms for weightlifting contenders. Although the International Wrestling Federation recommended various norms, the IOC, being an independent body, made this groundbreaking decision. Meanwhile, this decision has left weightlifting aspirants in triumph. 

Weightlifting: Olympic Inclusion and Evolving Standards

Although five sports, officially requested inclusion in the LA28 Olympics, Weightlifting was put on hold. It was because of the International Olympic Committee’s dissatisfaction with the standards set by the International Weightlifting Federation to address anti-doping concerns in the sport. However, the gate finally opened. USA Weightlifting recently shared the news on their official X handle with the caption “Weightlifting officially in! We’re excited to for LA28.”

As weightlifting is considered a highly cautious sport, the contenders undergo various unfair means, such as doping, to take the top spot. However, the International Weightlifting Federation, well aware of these circumstances, took a major step to change the perception of Weightlifting. This strategic move by the federation has acted as a milestone in the journey of weight-lifting to the Olympics. It not only requested the addition of a Weightlifting sport to the LA Olympics list but also delegated its anti-doping management to the famous international testing agency. 

In addition to this, the IOC has also mentioned that it will closely monitor the effectiveness of anti-doping programs implemented by the IWF. Furthermore, the IOC will also ensure the effective implementation of the governance and the changes adopted by the IWF, keeping up with the requests it made.

Expanding the LA28 Olympic Sports Lineup: New and Returning Choices

Meanwhile, the IOC has also approved the inclusion of modern pentathlon in the upcoming LA28 Olympics. This decision is in line with the acknowledgment of a significant change in the replacement of horse riding with obstacle racing. This aims to reduce the cost and complexity of the sport. Furthermore, the IOC has emphasized the importance of the International Modern Pentathlon Union continuing to make governance reforms and modernization efforts.

Read more: Amidst 5 sports fighting for the coveted 2028 LA Olympics spot, Weightlifting Awaits final confirmation

The recent changes in the list of sports to be added to the upcoming Olympics indicate a shift toward a more streamlined and dynamic event. It would not only make the Olympic games a kind of event but also would give dimensions to the young athletes belonging to newly added sports. Do you know boxing is still on hold?

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