The International Swimming League (ISL) is set to make a comeback after a five-year break with an All-Star Match scheduled for December 19 at the London Aquatics Centre, the league announced. This event marks the first step towards the league’s full relaunch. The competition will showcase top swimmers from around the world vying for a substantial prize purse, with specific details to be revealed later. Notable athletes like American Caeleb Dressel, Britain’s Adam Peaty, and Hungary’s Katinka Hosszu have participated in previous ISL events.
The ISL’s plans, as outlined by Commissioner Ben Allen, aim to restart the league in the fall of 2026 under a revamped commercial model that reduces reliance on a single investor and emphasizes sponsorship and media partnerships. Originally established in 2019 to offer a professional competition outside the Olympic cycle, the ISL last held a season in 2021 before pausing operations due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical events affecting its main supporter, Ukrainian businessman Konstantin Grigorishin.
In a bid to revitalize the league, Allen mentioned a proposed seven-match comeback season across North America, Europe, and potential locations in Asia and the Middle East. The ISL is also contemplating a condensed one-day format following previous two-day competitions. Earlier in July, the league committed to paying overdue prize money to approximately 300 athletes from the 2021 season.
The upcoming London event is poised to serve as a trial run for this streamlined approach before a broader resurgence. Allen expressed excitement for the All-Star Match, describing it as a significant moment for the sport of swimming with the return of top athletes to the ISL stage. The choice of London as the host city was highlighted for its exceptional venue, the Aquatics Centre, which has a history of hosting major international swimming competitions.
Further details regarding the participating swimmers, match format, ticketing information, and broadcast arrangements for the London event will be disclosed by the ISL in due course.
