Enhanced Games set to debut in Las Vegas with athletes using banned drugs

On the neon-lit Strip in Las Vegas, the inaugural Enhanced Games are set to begin this weekend with athletes who have used performance-enhancing drugs banned in mainstream competition.

Critics say the event normalizes doping and endangers participants. Organizers say it will reward excellence and explore human limits through science.

Three months ago, about 40 athletes in sprinting, swimming and weightlifting gathered for an all-expenses-paid training camp in Abu Dhabi. They received appearance fees and the chance at a $1 million prize for breaking a world record.

At a hospital outside the city, the athletes were given tailored programs of substances prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency. The drugs included testosterone, anabolic steroids such as methenolone and nandrolone, human growth hormone, EPO, metabolic modulators and stimulants.

Organizers said the substances were approved by the US Food and Drug Administration and administered under medical supervision. The International Olympic Committee and Wada called the concept immoral and dangerous. World Aquatics banned anyone involved from its events.

Athletes who spoke to BBC Sport said money was their main motivation. They said they had been underpaid in their careers.

Organizers argue that current anti-doping rules drive use underground and that an open, controlled approach is safer. They also launched a personalized medicine platform offering hormone therapy, peptides and weight-loss drugs.

Backers include venture capitalist Christian Angermayer and tech billionaire Peter Thiel. Angermayer said the event would expand the market for human-enhancement products.

UK Anti-Doping said the Games send a dangerous message by downplaying health risks. Professor Ian Broadley of Birmingham University said participants face higher chances of heart attacks and psychiatric problems.

Australian swimmer James Magnussen, who has competed in the project, said he had seen no short- or medium-term side effects. He said athletes already accept health risks in pursuit of performance.

UK Sport director Kate Baker said the organization opposes the event and will cut funding and support for any athletes who take part.