L.A. Mayor Karen Bass & U.S. Athletes Arrive Home With Olympic Flag

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass returned home Monday after the conclusion of the Paris Olympic Games, marking the official transition of the Olympic flag to Los Angeles. The handover ceremony, which took place in Paris, featured Bass accepting the flag from International Olympic Committee President Thomas Bach. The flag was previously passed to Bach by Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo during a high-profile event at France’s national stadium.

Upon arriving at Los Angeles International Airport, Bass was greeted by a group of enthusiastic Olympic athletes. She, along with other city leaders, participated in a brief news conference to discuss the future of the Games in Los Angeles, scheduled for 2028.

“It is wonderful to be home,” Bass said. “It was amazing to be there last night at the closing ceremony. And I just have to say, Mayor Hidalgo was just wonderful. She opened everything up and was very supportive of us. The hand-off of the flag was more than just symbolism; it signifies a friendship that has developed between our two cities.”

Bass was accompanied in Paris by several notable figures including LA28 President Casey Wasserman, City Council President Paul Krekorian, Councilwoman Traci Park, and City Administrative Officer Matt Szabo. The delegation also included second gentleman Douglas Emhoff, California Sen. Laphonza Butler, Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson and Long Beach Representative Robert Garcia.

During the news conference, Bass acknowledged the responsibility that comes with the flag’s transition. “I think we all feel pressure,” she admitted. “We feel the pressure to ensure that our city and the region are fully prepared and ready to make the most of the opportunities that will come with hosting the Games.”

As Los Angeles gets ready to host the Olympics, city leaders are working to make sure the event benefits the local community and boosts the city’s reputation around the world.