This Thiel-backed venture allows doping in its own sports

A new venture, supported by prominent figures like Peter Thiel and Donald Trump Jr.'s 1789 Capital, is set to shake up the sports world with the launch of the Enhanced Games. Scheduled to debut in Las Vegas in May 2026, this innovative competition will allow athletes to use performance-enhancing substances, challenging the traditional norms of Olympic sports. The Enhanced Games promises to offer significant rewards, including $1 million bounties for those who set new world records. This unique approach is inspired by the marketing strategies of brands like Red Bull, utilizing the competitive spectacle to promote future enhancement products. In a recent episode of TechCrunch’s Equity podcast, co-founder and president Aron D’Souza discussed the concept of enhancement in sports, the implications for athlete longevity, and the criteria for participation in this groundbreaking event. Listeners can find the podcast on platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Spotify, and follow updates on social media at @EquityPod.