It’s like the Olympics - except steroids are allowed

The Enhanced Games represent a radical departure from traditional sporting norms, spearheaded by entrepreneurs Aron D’Souza and Maximilian Martin. Launched in 2023 and backed by investors like Peter Thiel and Donald Trump Jr., the event’s core premise is to openly embrace the use of performance-enhancing drugs, specifically anabolic steroids and human growth hormone, which are typically banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency. The inaugural competition, held in Las Vegas, features dozens of athletes vying for a substantial prize pool of $25 million (£18.6 million), with a bonus of $1 million (£740,000) for breaking world records. According to the company, the event is ‘bringing out into the open what it says is an undercurrent of many athletes cheat and take performance-enhancing drugs in the shadows.’ However, the project faces significant opposition. Health experts warn of the serious risks associated with these substances, including strokes and cardiovascular damage. Critics, particularly within the Olympic movement, view the Enhanced Games as a blatant affront to the spirit and founding principles of competitive sport. Travis Tygart, CEO of the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), argues that the solution lies in reforming anti-doping protocols, not in facilitating doping. He highlights the potential pressure on athletes to use drugs to achieve success, painting a stark picture of a future where Olympic medals could be earned through pharmacological manipulation. The company claims it is bringing out into the open what it says is an undercurrent of many athletes cheat and take performance-enhancing drugs in the shadows. The Enhanced Games have already attracted controversy, with UK Athletics’ chief executive Jack Buckner expressing ‘appallment’ at the participation of former Great Britain sprinter Reece Prescod. Similarly, GB Aquatics has stated that swimmer Ben Proud will not be selected for the British Olympic team if he competes in the Enhanced Games. Despite the criticism, some athletes are embracing the opportunity. Strongman Hafthor Bjornsson, who played the Mountain in Game of Thrones, is openly using steroids in his attempt to break his deadlift record, arguing that it’s accepted in his professional field. Shania Collins, an American sprinter, emphasizes the importance of honesty and transparency, stating that the athletes’ willingness to admit to doping gives them more integrity than those who cheat in the shadows. The Enhanced Games are already paying a doped up swimmer a million dollars for breaking a record, during one of the trials it hosted ahead of Sunday's competition.