As the International Olympic Committee (IOC) voted to include Cricket in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics at the historic Mumbai session, IOC member Nita Ambani welcomed the inclusion of the popular sport, saying it has the potential to attract a lot of new interest and opportunities for the Olympic movement across newer geographies in the world.

Nita Ambani, who is the first Indian woman to become an IOC member, hoped that cricket’s appeal around the globe would increase significantly with the announcement that the game is to be included in the Los Angeles 2028 Summer Olympics.

‘I am delighted that this historic resolution was passed at the 141st IOC Session taking place right here in our country in Mumbai,’ IOC member Nita Ambani said moments after cricket was officially confirmed as an Olympic sport

Speaking after cricket was officially confirmed as an Olympic sport at the ongoing 141st IOC Session in Mumbai, Nita Ambani said: ‘As an IOC member, a proud Indian, and an ardent cricket fan, I am delighted that IOC members have voted to include Cricket as an Olympic Sport in the LA Summer Olympics 2028!’

Cricket has only featured in one previous edition of the Olympics in 1900 when only two teams took part. ‘Cricket is one of the most loved sports globally, and the second most watched. For 1.4 billion Indians, cricket is not just a sport, it’s a passion!’ Nita Ambani said.

The IOC session is being held in India for only the second time in history, returning to the country after 40 years.

That the historic decision to include cricket in the Olympics came at one of the epicentres of the sport, is fitting.

‘I am delighted that this historic resolution was passed at the 141st IOC Session taking place right here in our country in Mumbai,’ Mrs Ambani added.

She hoped that the sport’s appeal around the globe would increase significantly with the announcement. ‘The inclusion of cricket in the Olympics will create deeper engagement for the Olympic Movement in newer geographies. And at the same time, provides a boost to cricket’s growing international popularity.’

Nita Ambani, who is the first Indian woman to become an IOC member, heralded the day as one of great joy for India.

‘I thank and congratulate the IOC and the LA Organizing Committee for their support of this landmark decision. It’s truly a day of great joy and jubilation!’ she said.