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Atlanta to launch 2028 Olympic torch relay across all US states

The torch relay for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics will commence in Atlanta, the host city of the last U.S. Summer Games in 1996, and traverse all 50 American states, organizers announced this week.

LSN India · 29 September 2026

Atlanta has been selected as the starting point for the historic Olympic torch relay leading up to the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Games, marking a significant return to the city that hosted the 1996 Olympics. The relay will cover all 50 states before arriving in Los Angeles for the opening ceremony, making it an unprecedented cross-country journey.

The decision to begin the relay in Atlanta underscores the symbolic connection between the two American Olympic host cities. The 1996 Atlanta Games were widely regarded as successful, setting a precedent for major sporting events in the United States. By starting the relay in Atlanta, organizers aim to honor that legacy while building momentum for the upcoming Los Angeles Games.

The multi-state torch relay represents one of the most ambitious pre-Olympic celebrations in recent memory. The relay will traverse diverse American landscapes and communities, allowing millions of citizens across the nation to participate in the Olympic spirit. The journey is expected to generate significant public engagement and media attention throughout the relay period.

Official details regarding the specific route, timing, and torch bearer selection process are expected to be announced in the coming months. The relay represents a key component of the Los Angeles organizing committee's broader efforts to promote Olympic values and prepare the nation for the Games.