ST. LOUIS: “Today’s announcement is an extraordinary win for St. Louis and a defining moment for our region’s continued rise as a premier destination for world-class sporting events,” said Brad Dean, president and CEO of Explore St. Louis. “We congratulate Marc Schreiber and the entire St. Louis Sports Commission team for their leadership, vision and persistence in securing this tremendous opportunity. Their work has once again positioned St. Louis on a global stage and reinforced what so many of us know to be true: This is a city built to welcome major events, passionate fans and unforgettable moments.”
As America’s first Olympic city, St. Louis holds a remarkable place in Olympic history. In 1904, St. Louis hosted the first Olympic Games ever held in the U.S., in conjunction with the World’s Fair. In 2028, that legacy will continue as St. Louis prepares to welcome the Olympic flame, serve as the site of the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials and host eight LA28 Olympic football (soccer) matches at Energizer Park.
“This is far more than a sports story,” Dean said. “It is a visitor economy story, a civic pride story and a global awareness story for St. Louis. These events will bring athletes, teams, fans, media and Olympic energy into our region, generating meaningful impact for hotels, restaurants, attractions, transportation partners, small businesses and neighborhoods across the St. Louis area.”
Explore St. Louis also celebrates the connection between the Marathon Trials and the Greater St. Louis Marathon, along with the important work of GO! St. Louis to inspire healthy, active living and community participation throughout the region.
“We are especially excited to see the Marathon Trials connected with the Greater St. Louis Marathon and the work of GO! St. Louis,” Dean said. “The running community in St. Louis is strong, engaged and deeply connected to the civic life of this region. This moment will elevate that energy in a powerful way.”
Explore St. Louis is proud to support the St. Louis Sports Commission, GO! St. Louis and the many civic and hospitality partners who will help bring this moment to life.
“This announcement gives St. Louis a once-in-a-generation opportunity to honor our Olympic legacy while showing the world the energy, character and momentum of the St. Louis region today,” Dean said. “We look forward to welcoming the world back to America’s first Olympic city.”
