April 16 (V7N) – The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) is "closely monitoring the impact" of the controversy surrounding LA28 organizing committee chair Casey Wasserman, USOPC chair Gene Sykes confirmed on Wednesday. Despite the ongoing scrutiny, Sykes emphasized that the USOPC is committed to collaborating with current Los Angeles 2028 Games organizers.

Wasserman, who has faced calls for resignation after his name appeared in files released from the investigation into late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, is at the center of public backlash. The files, made public in January, revealed that Wasserman exchanged racy emails with Epstein’s former associate and convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell two decades ago.

In response to the controversy, Wasserman announced in February that he would sell the sports and entertainment agency he founded, Wasserman Media Group, to distance himself from the scandal. However, he has not been accused of any criminal activity.

Sykes addressed the matter during a scheduled meeting of the USOPC board on Wednesday, acknowledging concerns from multiple stakeholders, including athletes. He reiterated that the USOPC takes these concerns "very seriously" and is committed to upholding the values of the Olympic and Paralympic movements in the United States.

“We’re stewards of the Olympic and Paralympic movement in the United States, and we’re committed to upholding and consistently demonstrating its values,” Sykes said. “We’ve actively engaged and listened to our stakeholders, including athletes, and we’re closely monitoring the impact on our community.”

Sykes also clarified that the responsibility of determining Wasserman's role lies with the LA28 board, not the USOPC. In February, the LA28 executive committee publicly backed Wasserman, stating that his actions occurred before Maxwell’s crimes became known. Wasserman, in turn, issued an apology, acknowledging the exchange but asserting that it took place before Maxwell’s trafficking crimes were revealed.

Despite the controversy, Sykes praised the efforts of the LA28 organizing committee, commending their “measurable progress” in securing corporate partnerships and enhancing community and athlete engagement. He emphasized that the USOPC is pleased with the work being done by the LA28 team.

“The ongoing committee is executing effectively, and we’re very happy to work with them,” Sykes said, reinforcing the USOPC’s continued collaboration with the LA28 organizers as they move forward with preparations for the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles.

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