In the turbulent history of the Olympic Games, few issues have caused as much controversy as doping, with athletes seeking to gain a competitive edge through performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). From notorious cases involving sprinters Ben Johnson and Marion Jones to the state-sanctioned Russian doping program, the use of PEDs has been a persistent concern.
Enter the Enhanced Games, also known as the Doping Olympics, a novel international sporting competition that not only permits but actively encourages the use of PEDs. Proposed by Australian venture capitalist Aron D’Souza in early 2023, this private initiative has gained significant traction, with billionaire Peter Thiel, co-founder of PayPal, recently announcing his investment alongside notable figures like Balaji Srinivasan and Christian Angermayer.
Scheduled initially for December 2024, the inaugural Enhanced Games, which aim to level the playing field by allowing unlimited PED use, are now set for mid-2025. Despite facing criticism, the event has garnered support from investors, with Thiel’s backing reportedly sufficient to produce the first edition.
While the location remains unconfirmed, the Enhanced Games plan to utilize existing infrastructure, differentiating themselves from the Olympic Games, which often require the construction of new facilities. The competition could potentially be hosted at a Division One university campus, offering a cost-effective alternative.
In a departure from the Olympic model, the Enhanced Games will focus exclusively on individual efforts, excluding team sports. The sporting categories include athletics, aquatics, combat, gymnastics, and strength, mirroring the structure of Olympic individual events.
A distinctive feature of the Enhanced Games is the financial compensation offered to participating athletes. In contrast to the Olympics, where compensation is mostly limited to medal winners, every Enhanced Games athlete will receive a base salary. Furthermore, athletes stand to earn cash rewards in their respective sports, reflecting the organizers’ emphasis on fairly remunerating participants.
While the compensation package may appeal to athletes in underfunded sports, the Enhanced Games have faced substantial criticism. Travis Tygart, CEO of the United States Anti-Doping Agency, dismissed the event as a “dangerous clown show,” and Australian Olympic gold medalist Anna Meares labelled it “unfair” and “unsafe.” Even figures like Russian doping whistleblower Dr Grigory Rodchenkov and World Athletics head Lord Sebastian Coe expressed concerns about the event’s impact on health and the integrity of sports.
As controversy swirls around the Enhanced Games, its future remains uncertain, with critics questioning the legitimacy and safety of an event that actively promotes the use of performance-enhancing substances.
