CrossFit Games Announces Major Change After Drowning Death

This year's CrossFit Games devolved into a tragedy after Serbian athlete Lazar Đukić drowned during an open-water swim event on Aug. 8. Now, the organization is making some changes to ensure nothing like this ever happens again. 

In a social media statement released Nov. 20, the CrossFit Games explained how it took action in the aftermath of Đukić's death to find out exactly what happened, launching a third-party investigation into the incident. 

"Lazar was not just a competitor; he was a beloved member of our community, a friend to many, and a model of perseverance and passion," the post read. A total of six initiatives were outlined on the CrossFit Games website about events going forward, which the organization said "reflect CrossFit's continued commitment to embedding safety as a core value throughout every level of event management and athlete support."

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CrossFit Games suspended open-water swimming after Đukić's death, and the new announcement confirmed that that ban will stay in place indefinitely. "If a future CrossFit Games includes a swimming component, it will take place in highly-controlled environments, such as pools, where safety teams can closely monitor every athlete," they said. 

In addition, starting with next year's event, organizers "will conduct additional on-site rehearsals for all event staff, safety personnel, and volunteers to test safety protocols and communications equipment."

The lack of response during Đukić's drowning led many to question why any race officials or medical professionals didn't notice what was happening. This will also be addressed at the next event. 

"Moving forward, CrossFit will also ensure paramedic teams and ambulances are on-site at all events even if they are not legally required based on local ordinances and regulations," the group said. 

Related: Brother of Deceased Crossfit Games Athlete Criticizes Org Leaders, Safety

Other new policies include the creation of a new senior leadership role responsible for safety at the Games as well as a CrossFit Games Safety Advisory Board composed of medical professionals, independent safety experts, and athletes, and a CrossFit Athlete Council comprised of athletes looking to incorporate feedback and improvements to future CrossFit events. Athletes will also have access to mental health professionals at the 2025 CrossFit Games.

"These changes reflect CrossFit's continued commitment to safety," the organization concluded. "We are confident these adjustments will enhance our ability to respond swiftly and effectively in any situation while fostering a safer environment for all athletes and event participants."

Details around the 2025 CrossFit Games are forthcoming.