The tragic death of Lazar Dukic at the 2024 CrossFit Games will have a significant impact on future competitions. The Professional Fitness Athletes Association (PFAA) has already begun advocating for improved athlete safety, and now swimming events have been banned.

An email sent to CrossFit event organizers prohibits scheduling swimming routines. “Effective immediately, no open water or pool swimming events are allowed until further notice,” the email states.

The decision comes after the CrossFit Games broadcast showed the Serbian athlete struggling for his life in one of the shots. Dukic passed away in Event 1, just meters from the finish line, during a workout that included running and swimming.

"SUBJECT: Important Update on Water Events | CrossFit licensed Events

Dear team,

In light of the tragic event last week, there is an important update on the licensed event programming: Effective immediately, no open water or pool swimming events are allowed until further notice.

We appreciate your cooperation in this matter. Our collective efforts are vital in improving water safety guidelines and ensuring the safety of all participants.

Thank you for your understanding and support. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please feel free to reach out.”, reads the email, which has been shared on various platforms.

Organizers of the upcoming Northern California Classic, a CrossFit licensed event, have sent an email to athletes detailing additional precautions following the incident in Fort Worth, Texas:

• Mandatory safety buoys in open water for all athletes.
• A rowing observer per athlete in the water to assist as needed.
• Life jackets allowed for those who choose to use them.
• Voluntary withdrawal from the swimming event will not disqualify an athlete from the rest of the competition.

However, after receiving the email, it will not be possible to include a swimming event in the competition.