Breakdancing, which is also known as breaking, made an unforgettable debut at the Paris 2024 Olympics, captivating audiences worldwide. The dance sport brought fresh energy to the games, featuring incredible athletes like Australia’s Rachael Gunn, also known as Raygun, whose unique routines went viral. Japan and Canada clinched gold medals in the women’s and men’s events respectively, marking a successful entry for breaking into the Olympic scene. However, despite its thrilling reception and origins in the United States, specifically New York, breakdancing will not be featured in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Breakdancing’s Paris 2024 Success and Fanfare
The inclusion of breakdancing in the Paris Olympics was widely celebrated as a move to attract a younger audience and showcase urban culture on a global stage. The breakers, with their dynamic power moves, intricate footwork, and expressive artistry, delivered compelling performances. Rachael Gunn’s innovative style and the gold medal victories for Japan and Canada highlighted the global appeal and competitive nature of breakdancing. The event was not just a competition; it was a cultural phenomenon that resonated with viewers and participants alike.
Los Angeles 2028 Chooses Different Sporting Paths
Despite the buzz generated by breakdancing at the Paris Games, the organizers for Los Angeles 2028 Olympics opted to include different sports in their program. Flag football and squash are set to make their Olympic debuts in LA, alongside the return of lacrosse, cricket, baseball, and softball. The decision reflects the host city’s prerogative, in collaboration with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), to propose sports that align with local interests and strategic goals for the Games. This selection process is a regular part of Olympic planning, allowing each host city to bring a unique flavor to the event, beyond the core 28 Olympic sports.
The Intricate Process of Olympic Sport Inclusion
Becoming a recognized Olympic sport is a rigorous journey that involves several stages and criteria set by the IOC. Initially, a sport needs to be officially recognized by the IOC. Following this, it must attain the status of an International Sports Federation. To be considered for Olympic inclusion, the sport must adhere to the Olympic Charter, the World Anti-Doping Code, and the Olympic Movement Code. Even with IOC recognition, a sport is not automatically included in the Olympic Games.
The IOC’s Executive Board plays a crucial role in proposing new sports for inclusion, which then goes to a vote. Key criteria are thoroughly evaluated, including the sport’s global participation – it must be practiced by men in at least 75 countries across four continents and by women in at least 40 countries across three continents. Furthermore, a substantial spectator and TV audience is essential. Clear and well-defined rules, cost-effectiveness, and the availability of necessary infrastructure in the host city are also vital factors in the decision-making process.
Path to Permanent Olympic Sport Status
For a new sport to gain permanent status in the Olympics, it needs to be featured in three consecutive Olympic Games. Looking ahead to the Los Angeles 2028 Games, sports like surfing, skateboarding, and sport climbing, which debuted at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (held in 2021), are on track to potentially achieve permanent Olympic status after these games. While breakdancing impressed in Paris 2024, its absence from the LA 2028 program means it will need to undergo further evaluation and potentially re-apply for inclusion in future Olympic Games to aim for a more permanent spot in the Olympic lineup.
In conclusion, while breakdancing’s Olympic debut in Paris was a resounding success, it will not be part of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. This decision underscores the competitive nature of Olympic sport selection and the dynamic program that changes with each host city. The future for breakdancing in the Olympics remains open, and enthusiasts can hope for its return in subsequent games, continuing its journey on the world’s biggest sporting stage.
