The International Swimming League (ISL) announced plans to pay more than $7 million in outstanding prize money to approximately 312 athletes, addressing payments owed since 2021. The announcement was made by ISL Commissioner Ben Allen as the professional swimming circuit moves to restore confidence among its competitors and prepare for a relaunch following a period of inactivity.

Allen confirmed that the league is committed to fulfilling its financial obligations to swimmers after delays stemming from unspecified challenges. “We’ve been hit by a couple of different issues,” he said, emphasizing that the organization had always intended to honor its commitments.

Among the athletes set to receive payments are several high-profile swimmers, including Olympic champions Ryan Murphy, Sarah Sjostrom, and Summer McIntosh. The release of these funds marks a significant step in reestablishing the ISL’s reputation and resuming operations after disruptions in recent years.

The ISL, which debuted in 2019 as an innovative professional swimming competition featuring team-based formats and prize earnings, has faced multiple challenges impacting its financial stability and scheduling. The repayment initiative signals an effort by league officials to resolve outstanding matters and secure the participation and trust of elite swimmers worldwide ahead of upcoming seasons.