Swimming’s governing body, World Aquatics, has issued a stern warning to athletes contemplating participation in the Enhanced Games, suggesting that those involved could risk bans from future competitions—even if they abstain from using performance-enhancing substances. The Enhanced Games are structured around substantial financial rewards, with a tempting offer of USD 1 million (AUD 1.55 million) for anyone who can break the men’s 50m freestyle world record.
James Magnussen, a prominent Australian Olympian, has emerged as a key figure for the Enhanced Games, actively encouraging fellow competitor and reigning Olympic champion Cam McEvoy to join. Magnussen believes it is only a matter of time before current swimmers opt to participate.
While Magnussen fell short of breaking the world record, Greek swimmer Kristian Gkolomeev achieved the feat by utilising performance enhancers and a now-prohibited swimsuit. This has further complicating the debate around doping in athletics.
World Aquatics has responded firmly, indicating that any athlete representing affiliated clubs who enters the Enhanced Games could face sanctions, irrespective of their drug use status. They emphasised that all athletes and coaches are bound by the World Aquatics Integrity Code, which aims to safeguard the sport’s reputation and public trust. Their measures include stringent anti-doping protocols enforced in partnership with the International Testing Agency (ITA), comprising both in-competition and out-of-competition testing.
In a strong statement, World Aquatics remarked, “Like clowns juggling knives, sadly, these athletes will get hurt performing in this circus.” They underscored the hazards of doping and reiterated their commitment to clean sport, declaring, “This is a sideshow to those who compete honestly, fairly, and respect the true spirit of sport.”
Australian Olympic Committee CEO Mark Arbib has already condemned the Enhanced Games concept, while the International Olympic Committee has not yet commented officially. Although no active swimmer has publicly committed to competing, there appears to be increasing intrigue about the event among some athletes.
Andrii Govorov, a recently retired world record holder in the 50m butterfly, has indicated his intention to participate, enticed by the potential financial reward. The landscape of competitive swimming is undoubtedly shifting, with emerging challenges raised by new formats and the ongoing discourse regarding integrity in sport.