USOPC evaluates new Team USA commercial model ahead of LA28 transition

The US Olympic and Paralympic Committee is evaluating new commercial arrangements to increase resources for athletes and national governing bodies as it prepares for the end of its partnership with the Los Angeles 2028 Games. The Guardian reported that a proposed entity, United States Olympic and Paralympic Ventures, has been under discussion for months, with board minutes recording preliminary talks with potential partners.

The discussions include the possibility of exchanging a stake in Team USA's commercial rights for investment, according to reports cited by the Guardian. No completed deal was announced. USOPC chief executive Sarah Hirshland told Reuters that the commercial model remained in development and declined to provide specific details of its structure.

Board minutes described encouraging initial feedback from possible investment and strategic partners. They recorded that prospective partners broadly supported the proposed venture's rationale and vision. Separately, the USOPC said it was considering a range of commercial options while intending to preserve its mission, governance and leadership. The organization also said athlete and federation representatives had been consulted throughout the process.

The immediate backdrop is the scheduled conclusion of United States Olympic and Paralympic Properties, the USOPC's commercial partnership with LA28, after the Los Angeles Games. Hirshland described that point as a natural opportunity for transition and said preparations had been under discussion for more than two years. Her comments confirmed the search for a future commercial structure without setting out a final agreement.

The committee is a nonprofit organization that depends heavily on sponsorship, licensing and other commercial income rather than government funding. Its consideration of a different model therefore concerns a central source of support for Team USA. The proposed venture would operate against the backdrop of preparations for a home Summer Olympics in 2028, followed by the Winter Games in Salt Lake City in 2034.

Hirshland said the aim was to build consistent, sustainable commercial strength that could include Utah's 2034 Games and accommodate future US host organizations. For now, the committee's stated position remains an evaluation of options: its chief executive has not disclosed a settled model, and the reported prospect of outside investment has not been presented as a finalized transaction.