Los Angeles could host the 2024 Summer Olympics after Boston withdraws bid

'I cannot commit to putting our taxpayers at risk'

Lawrence Probst, flanked by Martin Walsh (left) , talks about selecting Boston as its applicant to host the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. (Reuters/USA Today Sports)

Boston has officially withdrawn its bid to host the 2024 Summer Olympic Games.

The United States Olympics Committee has discontinued the city's bid on Monday following Boston Mayor Marty Walsh's refusal to sign a hosting contract that would have put taxpayers at risk of paying budget overages.

“This is a commitment that I cannot make without assurances that Boston and its residents will be protected," he said during a news conference.

According to the Associated Press, the measure was beset by poor communication, low public support and
active opposition. The city was reportedly under pressure to gain at least 40 percent of public support.

Meanwhile, the USOC will be looking forward after two years of a secret selection process. The committee has said that it would “very much like" to see an American city host the games in 2024.

In January, Los Angeles was the runner-up for the nomination and could very well be the favourite to take the bid.

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said on Monday that he's eager to resume talks with the committee.

"We have always supported the USOC in their effort to return the Games to the United States. I would be happy to engage in discussions with the USOC about how to present the strongest and most fiscally responsible bid on behalf of our city and nation," he said.

The official deadline to nominate a city is 15 September.