Short-course World Swimming Championships to offer record prize money

Husain Al-Musallam, the new president of Fina, the international governing body for aquatic sports, has today revealed that prize money for the World Swimming Championships (25m) has been increased to over $2.8 million for this year's edition.

This represents the largest-ever prize pool for a Fina swimming event.

The short-course championships, postponed from last year because of the coronavirus pandemic, are scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi in the UAE from 16 to 21 December.

The prize money for individual events has been increased by 50 per cent, and athletes who set a world record will be awarded a bonus of $50,000.

Kuwaiti official Al-Musallam, who recently succeeded Julio Maglione as Fina president, said: “Exactly two months ago, when I took office, I promised the Aquatics family that I would prioritise athletes, increase prize money and ensure there is no discrimination in our sport. Today’s announcement honours this commitment.”

“Athletes are the heartbeat of aquatics. They all deserve the very best competitions and prize money that reflects their standing as the world’s greatest athletes.”