DALLAS — Following the death of Lazar Đukić during the August CrossFit Games, CrossFit released new safety protocols after an independent investigation.
The initial safety procedure involves creating a new senior leadership role focused on safety at the CrossFit Games. The person in this role will centralize safety protocols, develop safety and emergency plans, oversee pre-event rehearsals, and coordinate with on-site safety experts, staff and athletes.
The CrossFit Games will establish a Safety Advisory Board, which will include a mix of medical professionals, independent safety experts and athletes. According to CrossFit, this board will hold regular meetings before and during events to assess risks, review safety protocols and offer input.
Open-water swimming at the CrossFit Games will remain suspended.
To prepare for the games, CrossFit has announced additional on-site rehearsals for event staff, safety personnel and volunteers to practice procedures and test communication equipment. CrossFit will also focus on safety in pre-event briefings with athletes to reduce potential risks.
Mental health services will be expanded by including mental health professionals on the on-site medical teams. The final implementation will be a CrossFit Games Safety Advisory Board, which will contribute feedback and have significant influence on competition protocols, athlete safety, overall athlete well-being and business operations.
The first Athlete Council members are expected to be chosen by early 2025.
Launched in 2007, the CrossFit Games are an annual athletic competition. The Games feature a range of challenges for athletes, including CrossFit staples like metabolic conditioning, weightlifting and gymnastics, as well as elements from other sports. The CrossFit Games champions receive cash prizes and the prestigious title of “Fittest on Earth.”
During the CrossFit Games on Aug. 8, 2024, Lazar Đukić tragically died while participating in a swimming event. According to the Tarrant County Medical Examiner, the 28-year-old died from accidental drowning.