Olympics Sites Finalized: Paris in 2024, Los Angeles In 2028

LOS ANGELES, CA — The International Olympic Committee finalized the host cities of the Olympics in 2024 and 2028 on Wednesday. Though the final decisions were reached earlier, showcasing both cities allowed pomp and circumstance for Parisians and Angelinos alike on the international stage.

Thomas Bach, the IOC president, congratulated both Paris and Los Angeles for their bids, guiding the IOC through the ratification process selecting Paris for 2024, and Los Angeles for 2028. The delegates for each city cheered for the final decisions.

Though Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti hadn't intended to change the Los Angeles bid for the Olympics from 2024 to 2028, he was happy to do so. The Follow The Sun Los Angeles Olympic bid campaign has been all about making changes, opportunities in an ever changing world.

Watch: Los Angeles Lights The Olympic Cauldron

"Much has been written about the fast changing nature of the world," Garcetti said. "The people of Los Angeles know that the games, with your help, begin today. Follow the sun isn't just a reference to the weather, but the embodiment of the spirit and culture of our city. Only by following the sun can you reach tomorrow."

Both Paris 2024 and Los Angeles 2028 ratification agreements were announced following a unanimous vote of the IOC committee members.

"Today is the day we all step forward into a new future, together," said Janet Evans, three-time Olympic swimmer and member of the 2028 Delegation said. "Our Olympic events are born out of thousands of hours of preparation and sacrifice...Sport provides us the path, but the destination of the Olympics is about values. The people of LA believe in the power of tomorrow."

Casey Wasserman, L.A. 2028 delegate and chairman of the 2028 bid committee, acknowledged the IOC as he discussed the bid.

"I know what you are thinking, these guys from L.A. seem laid back, wearing sneakers to their final presentation," he said with a laugh. "We will bring a unique brand of California cool to the 2028 games."

The Los Angeles brand and vision, as Wasserman said, was one of optimism and progress.

"This process brought me a valuable lesson in perception. It's human to make assumptions of the unknown. We only learn to appreciate each other as we get to know each other as human beings," Wasserman said. "The Olympics is the greatest expression of shared human values ever created."

Wasserman assured the committee that Los Angeles is ready for this incredible opportunity. "We won't let you down," he said. "I look forward to seeing you all in 2028."

According to Garcetti, "I won't be the mayor in 2028, but Los Angeles will be my home. My daughter will be 16. We will have a reborn airport, rail lines, and more."

Garcetti further expressed his feelings, saying that the 2028 games will be the accelerating force to the future and a spark of change and growth over the next 11 years.

The Los Angeles games concept is what the IOC referred to as "mind blowing."

Watch the presentation:

IOC Youtube Screencapture Images