Overview

• Former European champion Marius Kusch confirmed on Instagram he will race the 50 m and 100 m butterfly in Las Vegas in May 2026, citing financial security and saying he will compete under medical supervision.
• The Enhanced Games plan competitions in swimming, athletics and weightlifting, with $500,000 per event, $250,000 to winners, and bonuses up to $1 million for specified record times.
• The German Swimming Federation condemned the project as contrary to sport’s values, and the DOSB said participants place themselves outside the sports community and face unquantifiable risks.
• NADA cautioned that German athletes could violate national anti‑doping law and face prosecutorial scrutiny if links to banned substances are established, noting limited current oversight of Kusch.
• Reactions from athletes and ex‑athletes ranged from shock to ethical objections, while prior commitments by Ben Proud and Fred Kerley underscore a growing, high‑profile roster.