The Enhanced Games, a controversial event that permits the use of performance-enhancing drugs, has signed US sprinter Fred Kerley, the world 100m champion in 2022. Sources have told the Guardian that the organisation is now reaching out to other British athletes, following the announcement that Olympic 50m freestyle silver medallist Ben Proud had joined.
Kerley's decision led to him being dropped by his agents, Pace Sports Management, which also represents Usain Bolt and Mo Farah. Ricky Simms, head of Pace Sports, stated: 'We did not negotiate this deal and no longer represent Fred Kerley.'
The American sprinter, who won Olympic silver in Tokyo and bronze in Paris, is currently provisionally suspended by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) for whereabouts failures. If found guilty of an anti-doping violation, he faces a minimum two-year ban. David Howman, AIU chairman, suggested further sanctions could follow, noting that Kerley has no rights in athletics while suspended.
Howman questioned the appeal of the event, due to take place in Las Vegas next May, comparing it to Romans watching Christians fight lions. Brett Clothier, head of the AIU, described the Enhanced Games as 'grotesque' and expressed concern for athletes' health. Sebastian Coe, World Athletics president, declined to discuss the matter, emphasising instead the sport's increased prize money.
Kerley, whose personal best is 9.76 seconds, said he joined to become the fastest man ever, with a $1m bonus if he beats Bolt's 9.58 record. 'The world record has always been the ultimate goal of my career,' he said.
