In 2024, the Enhanced Games, a parallel concept to the Olympic Games, has sparked significant attention and debate. With each emerging critique challenging its principles and standards, billionaire CEO Aron D’Souza vigorously defends his brainchild with assertive rebuttals. Notable figures in the sports world, including Sebastian Coe and Kieren Perkins, have been met with D’Souza’s staunch defense.

They have asserted that the Enhanced Games prioritize “a safe competition” by rigorously maintaining the health and safety of athletes through comprehensive pre-competition health assessments. Despite facing global criticism, the Enhanced Games has recently garnered support from a renowned American cyclist who expressed alignment with its principles.

American cyclist defends the concept of Enhanced Games

In a recent series of posts on his X platform, American road racing cyclist James Hibbard shared a shift in his perspective. Despite previously staunchly condemning anti-doping practices, in his career and in his book ‘The Art of Cycling’ he shared, “I have reflected on their mission and approach I was surprised to find that I agreed with nearly all of the points made by the Enhanced Games.”

Hibbard shed light on the pervasive issue of athlete exploitation, highlighting the stark contrast between the generous compensation received by sports federation administrators and the financial struggles faced by athletes, where athletes had to take on side jobs like those at Home Depot.

Furthermore, he acknowledged the ideal of “pure” sport but suggested that the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) becomes more dangerous when done in secrecy, implying that bringing it into the open might mitigate some of these dangers. In the next thread, Hibbard delved into the ideology of the Enhanced Games, which focuses on the idea that modern medicine and advancements in health can bring about significant benefits, hinting at a broader use of technology and interventions in sports.

In his final update, he emphasized that his alignment with Enhanced Games is not motivated by personal interests but rather by genuine recognition of the broader issues of exploitation in sports, where talented athletes are often subjected to systems of exploitation that go beyond just doping. As we reflect on these words, let us explore the monetary benefits and safety measures assured by the Enhanced Games.

The benefits offered to participants

The Enhanced Games prioritize both monetary benefits and safety measures for athletes, setting a new standard in sports events. On the website, it mentions that the Enhanced Games ensure fair compensation, offering athletes a base salary and substantial prize winnings that are announced to be larger than any other comparable event in history. In terms of safety, the Enhanced Games aim to be the safest sporting event globally, implementing comprehensive pre-competition medical screening protocols.

Athletes undergo free screening, including echocardiograms, blood tests, genomic sequencing, and magnetic resonance imaging, to assess cardiac health, overall well-being, genetic predispositions, and brain health. This proactive approach allows athletes to compete safely and make informed decisions about their participation. As we reflect on these provisions, what are your thoughts regarding cyclist James Hibbard’s perspective? Comment below!

Read more: Advocating Public Safety, Enhanced Games CEO Openly Questions World Athletics President’s Double Standards