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Irish Olympian Max McCusker Joins Enhanced Games Ahead of 2026 Las Vegas Debut

His decision reflects the financial pull of a cash-rich format that permits medically supervised banned substances.

Overview

  • McCusker announced his move on Instagram, becoming the second Irish swimmer to sign up after Shane Ryan.
  • Organizers say the roster now includes 11 swimmers, three weightlifters and three sprinters.
  • The first staging is planned for May 2026 in Las Vegas at a purpose-built site featuring a four-lane 50m pool, a six-lane sprint track and a weightlifting stage.
  • Each event will offer a $500,000 purse with $250,000 to the winner and $1 million bonuses for world records in the 100m sprint and 50m freestyle.
  • Sport Ireland, Swim Ireland and the Olympic Federation of Ireland have condemned participation, warning of serious health risks from performance-enhancing drugs.