Swimmer Shane Ryan set for Enhanced Games where performance-enhancing drugs allowed

Michael Bolton

Three time Irish Olympian Shane Ryan is going to join next year's Enhanced Games.

The controversial event allows participants to use performance-enhancing drugs and will not follow the rules of the World Anti Doping Agency.

Shane previously won two bronze medals at the World Swimming Championships and represented his country at the Olympic Games in Rio, Tokyo and Paris.

He says he's looking forward to finding the "absolute maximum of what my body is truly capable of".

"I've always wanted to know the absolute maximum of what my body is truly capable of, and here, with the focus on athlete health, safety, and transparency, I finally get that chance.

"I'm ready to embrace this new era, and hopefully smash my personal bests and challenge the world records."

The event, which has been condemned by the IOC, is due to get underway in Las Vegas in May 2026.

The Enhanced Games is a multi-sport event founded by Australian businessman Aron D'Souza. D'Souza claims he created the event because he believes that athletes are entitled to do what they wish with their own bodies.