Colorado Springs, long celebrated as “Olympic City,” has been selected to host the 2027 World Lacrosse Sixes Championships. The tournament, which runs from October 4 to October 10, 2027, will also serve as the primary qualification event for the sport’s return to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Why Colorado Springs?
The decision reflects the city’s deep ties to the Olympic movement. Home to the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee headquarters and more than 50 national sports organizations, Colorado Springs offers the infrastructure and community spirit that World Lacrosse says “embody the Olympic spirit.” World Lacrosse CEO Jim Scherr noted in a press release that the city’s legacy makes it a fitting venue for the sport’s first sixes‑format world championship.
Event Details
The championship will be staged at Weidner Field in downtown Colorado Springs. Sixteen men’s and sixteen women’s national teams will compete, representing the continents of Africa, Asia‑Pacific, Europe and Pan‑America. Over the seven‑day competition, five of the six Olympic berths for the 2028 Games will be decided, with the final spot allocated through a separate qualification pathway.
Local Impact
Mayor Yemi Mobolade praised the event as a testament to the city’s tradition of welcoming international sport. “Our community has a long tradition of embracing international sport, and we look forward to welcoming athletes and visitors from around the globe to experience everything Colorado Springs has to offer,” he said.
Local businesses anticipate a boost in tourism, with visitors expected to fill hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets throughout the week. The city’s parks and recreation department plans a series of fan‑friendly activities, including youth lacrosse clinics and cultural showcases, to engage residents and visitors alike.
What Is Lacrosse Sixes?
The sixes format is a faster, shorter version of traditional lacrosse, featuring six players per side and a reduced field size. The streamlined game is designed to be more television‑friendly and aligns with the International Olympic Committee’s push for dynamic, spectator‑oriented sports.
World Lacrosse officials believe the sixes format will help grow the sport’s popularity in the United States and abroad, providing a clear pathway for athletes aiming to compete on the Olympic stage.
Looking Ahead
As the countdown to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics begins, Colorado Springs’ role as the primary qualifier underscores the city’s ongoing contribution to the nation’s athletic excellence. The event also offers a unique opportunity for local families to experience world‑class competition without traveling far from home.
Fans can follow updates, ticket information, and related community events through the official World Lacrosse website and the City of Colorado Springs’ communications channels. The championship promises to be a highlight of the 2027 sports calendar and a proud moment for the city’s residents.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
