With the 2028 Summer Olympics set to return to Los Angeles, many Texans might wonder—why not us? Texas has world-class facilities, passionate sports fans, and a strong Olympic legacy. But despite all that, Texas will never be allowed to host the Summer Olympics, and the reason comes down to one brutal truth: the heat.
Too Hot for the World’s Best Athletes
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While Texas thrives in many areas, its scorching summers are simply too extreme for Olympic standards. The dangerous mix of triple-digit temperatures and suffocating humidity makes it a health risk for athletes, staff, and spectators alike.
According to a CNN report, heatstroke and exhaustion are becoming more common among elite athletes competing in high temperatures. And while Texans might be used to it, international visitors aren’t. For those flying in from cooler regions, the heat could quickly go from uncomfortable to dangerous.
Olympic History Says It All
Only six U.S. cities have ever hosted the Olympic Games:
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Los Angeles, CA
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Atlanta, GA
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St. Louis, MO
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Lake Placid, NY
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Salt Lake City, UT
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Squaw Valley, CA
Notice anything? Every one of them has a cooler or drier climate compared to Texas. When it comes to the Summer Games, mild weather is non-negotiable.
It’s Not About Talent—Texas Athletes Shine
Don’t mistake the location ban as a knock on Texas talent. In fact, Texas athletes dominate at the Summer Olympics.
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At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Texas athletes racked up 41 total medals, including 16 golds.
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University of Texas at Austin athletes alone have won 16 medals since the 1984 Games, with at least one gold medalist every year.
Clearly, Texans don’t need to host the Olympics to win them.
So, Will Texas Ever Host the Summer Olympics?
Barring a massive climate shift or a move to winter scheduling (not likely), no—Texas won’t be hosting the Summer Olympics.
But hey, we’ll keep sending our best athletes to take home the gold…and maybe invite the world over for some Olympic-level BBQ instead.
