As we mentioned earlier, challenging times lie ahead for competitive CrossFit following the death of Lazar Dukic during the 2024 CrossFit Games. The latest development in this regard is the set of demands from the Professional Fitness Athletes Association (PFAA), which states that it is "necessary" to begin restoring athletes' trust.

A few days ago, Brent Fikowski, who placed third in the Games, strongly criticized the organization's response to the tragic event, highlighting their indifference to participants' requests. Now, an extensive statement has been released outlining the demands from the organization, which is led by top athletes in the sport.

The statement demands transparency regarding the third-party investigation into Dukic's death, the creation of a team focused on ensuring athlete safety, and the removal of Dave Castro from his position.

The PFAA represents the interests of athletes competing in the CrossFit Games season. The sport is built on the principle that athletes do not know all of the details of the events they participate in, but we always assumed if something went wrong they would save us. We were wrong.

1) We demand an appropriate level of transparency between CrossFit and the PFAA regarding their 3rd party investigation as to the death of Lazar Dukic and subsequent changes made to protect all athletes going forward.

2) We demand CrossFit create an independent safety team to liaise with the PFAA on an ongoing basis.

3) We demand that Dave Castro be removed from his position in the Sport Team.

These demands reflect the immediate steps necessary to begin to restore athlete trust in CrossFit Sport. The PFAA is also acutely aware that more must be done to change the culture and strategic direction of this sport to ensure its future and that will take time.

Signed The PFAA Board – Anníe Thorisdottir, Brent Fikowski, Dina Swift, Fee Saghafi, Leeverne Engelbrecht, Patrick Vellner, Royce Dunne, Victoria Campos

The PFAA was founded in July 2020 and is led by Brent Fikowski, who serves as the organization's president. Fikowski is supported by prominent athletes from the seven competitive regions, including Pat Vellner, Annie Thorisdottir, and Fee Saghafi, among others. Additionally, the PFAA has an Advisory Council comprised of Caroline Lambray, John Christian Singleton, Justin Cotler, Max El-Hag, and Joshua Hicks.

In late 2023, the PFAA established a partnership with Loud & Live Sports, the organization responsible for events such as TYR Wodapalooza in Miami and SoCal.