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Olympics chief reveals she has not spoken to Trump about 2028 LA Games

Donald Trump has frequently met with Fifa president Gianni Infantino ahead of the World Cup, but is yet to speak to IOC president Kirsty Coventry

Donald Trump has not spoken with IOC president Kirsty Coventry about the LA Olympics
Donald Trump has not spoken with IOC president Kirsty Coventry about the LA Olympics (AFP via Getty Images)

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has yet to establish formal communication with the White House and President Donald Trump regarding preparations for the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics, according to IOC President Kirsty Coventry.

Her comments came on Wednesday amidst a period of heightened international tension.

President Trump’s first year in office was marked by significant geopolitical shifts, including his controversial proposal to acquire Greenland as an Arctic outpost and threats of a trade war with European nations.

His administration also saw action against Venezuela, with discussions of similar measures targeting Cuba, Colombia, and Iran.

When questioned about the lack of dialogue with the White House amid these global developments, particularly concerning an event expected to host over 10,000 athletes from more than 200 nations, Ms Coventry emphasized that commenting on geopolitics falls outside the IOC’s remit.

Kirsty Coventry has not spoken to Donald Trump about the LA Games yet
Kirsty Coventry has not spoken to Donald Trump about the LA Games yet (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

"We are always aware of all the conversations that are happening and the geopolitics and political conversations happening," she stated during a press conference.

"I want to make clear that it is not in our remit to comment on such matters. Our goal is to have all National Olympic Committees represented at the Games."

She added: "As it pertains to the USA we have not had formal communication just yet with the White House. We have seen the formal announcement of President Trump's team (for the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics next month.) We look forward to meeting the vice president."

Vice President JD Vance is set to lead the American presidential delegation to the Milano-Cortina Games’ opening ceremony on 6 February, accompanied by his wife, Usha Vance.

In contrast, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has frequently met with President Trump at the White House, even awarding him a peace prize in December, ahead of the US co-hosting the World Cup later this year.

Ms Coventry noted this difference, stating: "If we weren't seeing good relations six months before the World Cup I would get worried. As we get closer to the Olympics you will see the relations continue ... and only get stronger."

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