Two-time Olympic 100m medalist Fred Kerley became the first track and field athlete to join the controversial Enhanced Games. The American sprinter, currently suspended for doping violations, will compete in the 100m at the 2026 event in Las Vegas. Kerley aims to challenge Usain Bolt’s world record of 9.58 seconds.
“The world record has always been the ultimate goal of my career,” Kerley said on the Enhanced Games website. “This now gives me the opportunity to dedicate all of my energy to pushing my limits and becoming the fastest human to ever live.” The Enhanced Games, founded by Australian entrepreneur Aron D’Souza in 2023, allows the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). According to organisers, this is under a “safe, legal, and science-driven” protocol.
🏃♂️ Fred Kerley (@fkerley99) joins the @Enhanced_Games.
👟 First Track athlete.
🇺🇸 First American male athlete.
🙌 Welcome to @Enhanced. pic.twitter.com/E45tjxzekL
— Enhanced Games (@enhanced_games) September 17, 2025Kerley, 30, won a silver medal in the 100m at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and a bronze medal in Paris 2024. He claimed 100m gold at the 2022 World Championships but faces a provisional suspension. This is for failing anti-doping whereabouts requirements. This marks his first major commitment since the issue, joining swimmers James Magnussen, Ben Proud, and Kristian Gkolomeev in the PED-legal event.
The Enhanced Games, featuring swimming, sprinting, and weightlifting, have drawn sharp criticism. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) called it a “dangerous and irresponsible project.” In June 2025, World Aquatics banned participants from its events. The Games responded with an antitrust lawsuit in August, accusing federations of illegal boycotts. Winners earn $250,000 per event, with the $1 million record bonus adding incentive.
Kerley’s participation challenges traditional athletic values, sparking debate about PEDs in sport. As a former world champion, his move could inspire others but risks his legacy. The Enhanced Games test the boundaries of competition, raising ethical questions about fairness, health, and innovation in track and field.
Fred Kerley’s Enhanced Games signing marks a seismic shift in sprinting. His pursuit of Bolt’s record with PEDs could redefine athletics.
