The International Swimming League is set to make a comeback as early as 2026 following a three-year break. The league, which aims to provide a global team-based competition in swimming, is banking on a revamped commercial strategy, solid financial support, and the momentum generated by the upcoming 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Initially introduced in 2019, the ISL sought to engage swimming enthusiasts beyond the Olympic Games by establishing a season-long league with regular competitions, showcasing top athletes such as Caeleb Dressel, Adam Peaty, and Katinka Hosszu. The league’s operations were disrupted in 2021 due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and challenges faced by its primary backer, Ukrainian businessman Konstantin Grigorishin.
Commissioner Ben Allen expressed enthusiasm for the league’s relaunch, with a target return date of autumn 2026, possibly extending to 2027. The new operational model aims to reduce dependency on a single investor, focusing more on securing sponsorships and media partnerships for sustainability.
The upcoming season is expected to feature seven matches held across North America and Europe, with potential stops in Asia and the Middle East. The United States, a key market for the ISL, is likely to host events, building on past successes like the 2019 final held in Las Vegas.
In preparation for the relaunch, the league is considering format adjustments based on feedback from stakeholders to enhance the viewer experience, potentially exploring a one-day event structure for easier accessibility and engagement.
The return of the ISL coincides with the lead-up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, presenting an opportunity to expand the sport’s appeal beyond the Olympic period and provide athletes with a consistent platform to enhance their public profiles. The league aims to maintain athlete visibility throughout the Olympic cycle, emphasizing entertainment value and competitive narrative in its events.
Despite legal disputes involving World Aquatics, the governing body of swimming, the ISL remains committed to its relaunch plans. A previous settlement of $4.6 million was reached with pro swimmers involved in a lawsuit, allowing their participation in the ISL without jeopardizing their Olympic eligibility. World Aquatics denied any wrongdoing in the settlement, which did not impact an ongoing lawsuit filed by the ISL against the governing body in 2018.