Donald Trump Jr.-backed 'Steroid Olympics' are happening on Sunday. Here's what to expect

This Sunday, Las Vegas will host a groundbreaking sports event featuring Olympic medalists where performance-enhancing drugs are not just allowed but expected. Known as the Enhanced Games, this competition—often referred to as the 'Steroid Olympics'—will see 42 athletes competing in disciplines such as swimming, track, and weightlifting. Critics, including the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the International Olympic Committee, have expressed strong disapproval of the games, which were announced earlier this year. Nevertheless, some investors see potential in this controversial venture. Donald Trump Jr.'s investment firm, 1789 Capital, has joined forces with prominent investor Peter Thiel to back the organization behind the games, leading its Series B funding round set for 2025. Despite a recent surge in stock value—up about 35% in the week leading up to the event—Enhanced Group has faced a significant drop of approximately 40% since its public debut on the New York Stock Exchange via a SPAC earlier this month. Trump Jr. has made headlines for his support, stating, "The Enhanced Games represent the future — real competition, real freedom and real records being smashed." The event will take place in a custom-built arena designed to accommodate 2,500 spectators, who will also enjoy a performance by the rock band The Killers following the competitions. While these athletes undergo rigorous training, they are also utilizing performance-enhancing substances that have received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Organizers assure that these athletes are monitored under strict medical supervision; however, specific details regarding their substance use remain confidential. Participants have reportedly used a variety of substances, including testosterone, human growth hormones, and anabolic steroids—all of which are typically banned by WADA. Notable athletes like Fred Kerley, the 2022 100m world champion, and Olympic medalist swimmers James Magnussen and Cody Miller have signed on to compete. Beyond the competitions, Enhanced Group has ambitious plans to market performance-enhancing products, having announced a line of supplements earlier this year. The company aims to establish itself as a leading provider of personalized enhancement solutions aimed at improving health and performance. CEO Maximilian Martin highlighted the growing popularity of peptide-based treatments and indicated a significant investment in this area, as products like Wegovy for weight loss gain traction globally.