Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Atlantic has been named the official airline partner of Team GB for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
The announcement ends British Airways’ 20-year grip on the partnership, which began with the Beijing 2008 Games.
British Airways’ tenure coincided with one of the most celebrated and successful eras in both Team GB and ParalympicsGB history.
Under the new deal, Virgin Atlantic will transport athletes and staff from Team GB and ParalympicsGB to and from the California Games in under two years.
Virgin Atlantic Holidays has also been confirmed as the official holiday partner, offering sports fans curated trips to California for the Olympics.
To celebrate the announcement, Branson took part in gymnastic and cycling challenges alongside Team GB’s Jake Jarman and ParalympicsGB’s Kadeena Cox.
“I’ve always loved a challenge and Team GB and ParalympicsGB athletes certainly know a thing or two about stepping up to the plate,” said Branson.
“I’m thrilled that Virgin Atlantic gets to be such an important part of their journey to the Games. We’ll be backing them all the way — from check-in and take-off to what I hope will be a very special journey home.”
Branson added: “The Games might be two years away, but it’s the years of dedication, preparation, passion, and support that come before that make all the difference. So, as far as we’re concerned, check in for LA28 is officially open!”
Beyond transporting athletes, Virgin Atlantic will participate in team announcements and celebrations to mark athletes’ returns to the United Kingdom.
Team GB chair Dame Katherine Grainger welcomed the partnership, describing the logistical effort behind any Olympic campaign as a significant undertaking long before competition begins.
“Getting Team GB to a Games is a huge team effort long before competition begins, so having Virgin Atlantic with us on the journey to Los Angeles is incredibly exciting,” said Dame Katherine Grainger.
“From supporting the team’s travel to helping us celebrate the moments and people that make a Games so special, we’re looking forward to bringing fans even closer to Team GB on the road to LA28.”
ParalympicsGB CEO David Clarke highlighted that the partnership carries broader significance beyond simply flying athletes across the Atlantic to compete.
“We’re delighted to welcome Virgin Atlantic as an official airline partner and gold partner of ParalympicsGB,” said Clarke.
“Not only will we work together to take our team to and from the games, but crucially, the partnership will see our teams working closely together to help make air travel more accessible and inclusive for everyone.”