Former Olympian Signs Up for 'Olympics on Steroids'
Reece Prescod, a former British Olympic sprinter, has become the latest high-profile athlete to join the contentious Enhanced Games. The event, scheduled for May in Las Vegas, has sparked global controversy by permitting athletes to use performance-enhancing drugs without any testing, leading to its nickname, 'The Olympics on Steroids'.
Prescod's New Chapter After Retirement
The 29-year-old, who retired from professional athletics in August 2025, confirmed his participation in a statement on Wednesday. Prescod represented Team GB for several years, including at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. His career highlights include a 100m silver medal at the 2018 European Championships and a personal best of 9.93 seconds, making him the fourth-fastest British sprinter in history.
In his statement, Prescod expressed enthusiasm for his new venture. 'I'm very excited to join the sprinting field and compete in the inaugural Enhanced Games,' he said. He praised the event's medical and training support, adding, 'Enhanced has provided me with life-changing medical supervision... and a fantastic compensation model.'
Big Money and Big-Name Backers
The Enhanced Games boasts significant financial incentives and powerful supporters. Founded by Australian businessman Aron D'Souza, it is backed by figures like billionaire Peter Thiel and Donald Trump Jnr. All competitors will receive substantial appearance fees, with prize money per event expected to reach up to £185,000.
A staggering $1 million (approx. £742,266) bonus is on offer for any athlete who breaks Usain Bolt's 100m world record of 9.58 seconds. Prescod is the second British athlete to sign, following world champion swimmer Ben Proud, and the fourth track athlete overall.
Proud previously cited financial stability and disillusionment with the traditional anti-doping system as key reasons for his involvement, referencing a case involving Chinese swimmers ahead of the Paris 2024 Games.
Prescod's own career was marred by injury setbacks and the disappointment of a false-start disqualification in the Tokyo Olympic 100m semi-finals. His move to the Enhanced Games marks a dramatic and controversial new direction, challenging the very foundations of modern elite sport.
