Irish PM Slams Shane Ryan’s Move to Enhanced Games

Micheál Martin says the swimmer’s decision sends the “wrong message” to young athletes

Micheál Martin, the Prime Minister of Ireland, has sharply criticised former Olympic swimmer Shane Ryan for joining the Enhanced Games  a new competition that allows the use of performance-enhancing drugs. Martin warned that Ryan’s decision could negatively influence young people involved in sport.

From Olympic Star to Enhanced Games Competitor

Ryan, who was born in the United States and later switched allegiance to Ireland, represented the country at three consecutive Olympic Games. Just a week after announcing his retirement from competitive swimming, the 31-year-old revealed his decision to participate in the Enhanced Games, describing it as an opportunity to “give back in new ways” and mentor future swimmers.

Prime Minister’s Strong Condemnation

Speaking to RTÉ News on Tuesday, Prime Minister Martin said:

“I would have a fundamental principle that performance-enhancing drugs should not be used in sports. I think the creation of this new league or new strand of sport is very disappointing. It just sends out the wrong message to young people and to children engaging in sport.”

His comments underline the Irish government’s firm stance against doping in athletics.

National Swimming Body Responds

Swim Ireland also voiced its disapproval, reaffirming its commitment to Sport Ireland and World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) anti-doping regulations. In a statement, the body said:

“We are disappointed by Shane Ryan’s decision to sign an agreement with the Enhanced Games. In line with his retirement in October, he is no longer associated with Swim Ireland’s National Team and will not receive any funding or services from the NGB going forward.”

Growing Debate Around Enhanced Games

The Enhanced Games which will feature swimming, athletics and weightlifting is scheduled to debut in May 2026 in Las Vegas. It is positioned as an alternative competition that permits athletes to enhance their performance medically and technologically.

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Ryan joins a list of athletes including Ben Proud, a British Olympic silver medallist swimmer, who became the first UK athlete to sign up for the event. Another notable name is Fred Kerley, an Olympic 100m medallist, who joined shortly after receiving a provisional suspension for whereabouts failures under anti-doping rules.

Legal Battles and Controversy

In August, the Enhanced Games launched an $800 million antitrust lawsuit against World Aquatics, USA Swimming, and WADA. The lawsuit alleges an “illegal campaign” to suppress the competition. The legal clash has intensified global debates over the future of doping regulations and the ethics of performance enhancement in sports.

A Divisive New Era for Sports

Ryan’s decision has triggered a wave of criticism from government officials, sports organizations, and fans. While supporters of the Enhanced Games argue it represents a more “realistic and transparent” approach to modern athletics, critics warn it undermines decades of work to ensure fair play and protect athlete health

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