Santa Anita Park has been officially confirmed as the venue for the equestrian events at the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028. Located in Arcadia, California, Santa Anita is set to offer a spectacular stage for the competitions. This announcement comes after Galway Downs in Temecula, CA, was dropped as a candidate venue. Santa Anita has previous experience hosting equestrian events, having been the venue for the 1984 Olympics.
FEI President Ingmar De Vos expressed excitement about Santa Anita as the Olympic venue, highlighting its proximity to Los Angeles and the city’s allure for spectators. The FEI has a long-standing relationship with Santa Anita, making it a fitting choice for the 2028 Games. The special legacy of the venue from the 1984 Olympics adds to its historical significance.

The IOC Sports Director Kit McConnell commended the partnership between the FEI, IOC, and the city of Los Angeles, emphasizing the support from the local equestrian community. The confirmation of athlete quotas for 2028 across disciplines ensures continuity and stability for the upcoming Games.

Santa Anita’s rich history includes hosting major Thoroughbred events such as the Breeders Cup, with legendary racehorses like Seabiscuit gracing its tracks. The venue boasts a 340m-long grandstand accommodating 26,000 spectators and 61 barns capable of housing over 2,000 horses. Additionally, Santa Anita offers a diverse range of equestrian competitions, including a CSI3* and FEI Jumping World Cup™ Qualifier CSI5*-W.

In a recent development, 1/ST Racing, a subsidiary of the Stronach Group that owns Santa Anita Race Track, threatened to sell or close Santa Anita due to financial concerns. This uncertainty raises questions about the future of the venue and its impact on the equestrian community in California.

The Para Equestrian events for the 2028 Games will be announced later, pending approval from the International Paralympic Committee Governing Board. This decision will further shape the landscape of equestrian sports at the upcoming Olympics.
As preparations continue for the equestrian events at the 2028 Olympics, the confirmation of Santa Anita Park as the venue underscores the significance of this iconic location in the world of equestrian sports. With its blend of tradition, modern facilities, and historical legacy, Santa Anita promises to deliver a memorable experience for athletes, spectators, and the global equestrian community.