The International Swimming League (ISL) is set to make a comeback after a five-year break with an All-Star Match at the London Aquatics Centre on December 19, as announced by the league. This event, featuring top swimmers from around the world, will offer a substantial prize fund, with specific details to be revealed later. Notable swimmers who have participated in past ISL events include Caeleb Dressel from the United States, Adam Peaty from Britain, and Katinka Hosszu from Hungary.
The decision marks a significant step towards the league’s planned full relaunch, following the vision outlined by ISL Commissioner Ben Allen last year. The league aims to resume operations in the fall of 2026 with a revamped commercial strategy focused on diversifying revenue sources through sponsorships and media partnerships, reducing reliance on a single investor.
Initially established in 2019 to offer professional swimming competitions outside the Olympic calendar, the ISL last held a season in 2021 before facing disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of geopolitical events on its main supporter, Ukrainian businessman Konstantin Grigorishin.
In December, Allen revealed plans for a comeback season consisting of seven matches across North America and Europe, with potential events in Asia and the Middle East. The league is also considering a condensed one-day format for competitions, having previously organized events over two days.
Earlier in July, the ISL committed to clearing overdue prize money for approximately 300 athletes from the 2021 season. The upcoming London All-Star Match is seen as a trial for a streamlined approach before a broader resumption of activities.
According to Allen, “The All-Star Match represents a highly anticipated moment for the swimming community, bringing back the world’s elite athletes to the ISL platform. London, with its exceptional venue and passionate sporting fans, is the ideal host city for this event.”
The London Aquatics Centre, constructed for the 2012 Olympics, has a history of hosting major international swimming competitions. The ISL is expected to reveal more details soon, including the participating swimmers, match format, ticketing information, and broadcast coverage.
