Ryan previously distinguished himself as the first Irish swimmer to compete in three Olympic Games.
Shane Ryan, the Irish Olympic swimmer, has announced his participation in the Enhanced Games, a controversial multi-sport event where athletes are permitted to utilize performance-enhancing substances without undergoing drug testing.
Ryan, born in the United States, represented Ireland in three consecutive Olympic Games before declaring his retirement from competitive swimming earlier this month.
“Following a decade of dedication to traditional competition on the world stage, I am eager to embark on this new chapter with the Enhanced Games,” the 31-year-old stated regarding his decision.
Ryan joins fellow Olympians such as Ben Proud (Team GB swimmer), Kristian Gkolomeev (four-time Greek Olympian), and Fred Kerley (US sprinter) in declaring their intention to compete in the Enhanced Games.
Sport Ireland has voiced strong disapproval of Ryan’s decision, expressing “deep disappointment.”
The inaugural Enhanced Games are slated to take place in Las Vegas in 2026, with each event offering a total prize pool of $500,000 and a $1 million reward for competitors who break world records.
Swim Ireland has also condemned Ryan’s move, confirming his disassociation from the organization and the cessation of all funding and services previously provided.
Ryan’s participation in the Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024 Games marked him as the first Irish swimmer to compete in three Olympics.
The Olympic Federation of Ireland has stated that Ryan’s involvement in the Enhanced Games “directly contradicts our fundamental values of clean sport.”