The International Swimming League (ISL) is making a comeback after a five-year break with an All-Star Match scheduled to take place at the London Aquatics Centre on December 19. This event marks the first step towards the league’s anticipated full relaunch.
The upcoming team-based competition will showcase top swimmers from around the world vying for a substantial prize pool, with specific details to be disclosed at a later date. Previous ISL events have seen the participation of renowned swimmers such as Caeleb Dressel from the U.S., Adam Peaty from Britain, and Katinka Hosszu from Hungary.
The recent announcement solidifies the plans set forth by ISL Commissioner Ben Allen, who previously mentioned the league’s intention to resume activities in the fall of 2026 under a revised commercial strategy focusing more on sponsorship and media partnerships rather than reliance on a single investor.
Established in 2019 to offer a professional competition outside the Olympic cycle, the ISL last held a season in 2021 before its operations were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of geopolitical events on its primary supporter, Ukrainian businessman Konstantin Grigorishin.
In a bid to revitalize the league, Allen revealed plans for a comeback season comprising seven matches across North America and Europe, with potential events in Asia and the Middle East. The ISL is mulling over a one-day competition format following its previous two-day structure.
Earlier this year, the league pledged to settle outstanding prize money owed to approximately 300 athletes from the 2021 season. The announcement of the London All-Star Match suggests a trial run for a more condensed approach before a broader relaunch.
ISL Commissioner Allen expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming event, labeling it as a significant moment for the swimming community. The choice of London as the host city was highlighted due to its world-class venue at the Aquatics Centre, known for hosting prestigious 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.