Australian entrepreneur aims to create a doping-encouraged Olympics

An Australian entrepreneur is aiming to develop a controversial alternative to the Olympic Games called The Enhanced Games, where athletes are free to participate without drug testing and are encouraged to embrace performance-enhancing drugs.

He is the fastest man in the world. He has broken Usain Bolt’s 100m record.

But the world isn’t ready for him. The Olympics hate him.

He has been vilified. He will be vindicated.

Come watch him compete at the 2024 Enhanced Games. pic.twitter.com/iop3IUptGz

— enhancedgames (@enhanced_games) June 19, 2023

According to The Enhanced Games website, the event aims to provide an alternative to what organizers perceive as a corrupt Olympics. They criticize the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for its alleged exploitation of athletes, lack of payment of athletes and rejection of “enhanced” world records. “The Enhanced Games promotes the use of science and focuses on core sports, aiming to break world records and ensure fair compensation for athletes.”  They argue that performance-enhancing drugs, when used responsibly, can significantly enhance training outcomes and allow athletes to reach their full potential.

The Enhanced movement was covered on 7 News Australia today. It is time to fight Olympic corruption and recognize that science is real.#olympics #scienceisreal #peds #tren #roids pic.twitter.com/eXxwEyVrlj

— enhancedgames (@enhanced_games) June 22, 2023

The founder, Aaron D’Souza, believes his concept is morally justifiable, hoping that athletes who aren’t doping will confidently demonstrate their abilities against their drug-enhanced counterparts, creating compelling television.

D’Souza’s concept has faced criticism from many, including the head of the Australian Olympic Committee Matt Carroll, who opposes the Enhanced Games, considering them “unsafe and irresponsible.” Carroll emphasizes the importance of clean and safe sports, highlighting the Olympic movement’s dedication to athletic excellence, friendship and respect. The concept has also been shunned by American sprinting legend Michael Johnson, who called the games “ridiculous” and an “illogical PR stunt for doped athletes” on Twitter.

The specific details, such as the event’s date and location, have yet to be announced. In an interview with The Guardian, D’Souza says he has attracted investors from Silicon Valley, and that two prominent Australian athletes have shown interest in participating. The competition will include five sports disciplines: track and field, swimming, weightlifting, gymnastics and combat sports. The Games are planned to be held on an annual basis.