Golden State Today

California is set to host a series of major international sporting events over the next three years, which are expected to bring significant economic benefits to the state. The lineup includes the NBA All-Star Weekend, X Games, FIFA World Cup, Super Bowl LX and LXI, and the LA28 Olympics and Paralympics.

Governor Gavin Newsom expressed optimism about these events: “From Northern to Southern California, the state is preparing to shine on the world’s biggest stages, welcoming fans from around the globe to experience the energy and diversity of our great state. These events will drive billions into our economy, support local businesses, and create jobs while uniting communities in celebration.”

The NBA All-Star 2025 recently concluded in the Bay Area with an estimated $350 million economic impact. Los Angeles will host back-to-back with NBA All-Star 2026. Meanwhile, Sacramento's Cal Expo will host the X Games for three consecutive summers starting in 2025.

The NFL's Super Bowl LX is scheduled for Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara in 2026, followed by Super Bowl LXI at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood in 2027. Super Bowl LX alone is projected to generate approximately $500 million in economic impact.

The FIFA World Cup in 2026 will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The event is anticipated to bring an estimated $555 million economic impact to the Bay Area and $594 million to Los Angeles.

In 2028, Los Angeles will host the Olympic and Paralympic Games. The LA28 Games are investing $160 million into youth sports across LA as part of their commitment to equitable access.

As these events approach, California remains focused on recovery efforts from recent fires through private partnerships and government coordination.

California continues its lead as a top tourism destination with record travel spending reaching $150.4 billion in 2023, surpassing previous records set before the pandemic.