"Steroid Olympics" set to debut sparks global doping debate

Olympic medallist Fred Kerley is among athletes reportedly attracted to the Enhanced Games by the promise of substantial prize money. [AFP]

The upcoming Enhanced Games—an Olympic-style sporting event that allows athletes to use performance-enhancing drugs under medical supervision—has triggered fierce debate across the sporting world ahead of its debut in Las Vegas.

The controversial competition, branded by critics as the “steroid Olympics,” will feature disciplines including swimming, track and field, and weightlifting, with organisers arguing it represents a new era of “enhanced human performance” in sport.

Backed by significant private investment, the event openly permits the use of substances such as testosterone and growth hormones, provided they are medically approved and monitored. Organisers say the model is designed to promote transparency in a sport they claim already struggles with widespread illicit doping.

However, global anti-doping authorities have strongly condemned the initiative, warning that it could undermine decades of anti-doping efforts and normalise drug use among athletes.

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has cautioned that participation in the event could carry serious health risks and ethical consequences, arguing that the competition sends the wrong message to young athletes.

Critics also warn that the use of performance-enhancing drugs—even under supervision—can lead to long-term health complications, including cardiovascular problems, hormonal imbalance and psychological effects.

Organisers, however, insist that athlete safety is central to the model, stating that all participants will undergo medical screening and continuous monitoring throughout competition.

They also argue that traditional sport already faces persistent doping challenges, and that bringing the practice into a regulated environment makes it safer and more transparent.

Despite the backlash, interest in the Enhanced Games continues to grow, with several high-profile athletes reportedly signing up or expressing interest in competing.

The event is expected to test not only athletic limits, but also global attitudes toward fairness, regulation and the future of competitive sport.