Penny Oleksiak Accepts Two-Year Suspension from Swimming

Penny Oleksiak, recognized as Canada’s top female Olympian, has accepted a two-year suspension from competitive swimming due to a breach of anti-doping regulations. This news was announced by the International Testing Agency (ITA) on Tuesday after Oleksiak missed three drug tests from October 2024 to June 2025.

Her suspension will last until July 14, 2027, just ahead of the 2028 Summer Olympics planned for Los Angeles.

Suzanne Paulins, the CEO of Swimming Canada, commented, “We are dedicated to upholding anti-doping rules as defined by Canada’s Anti-Doping Program and in conjunction with World Aquatics and the World Anti-Doping Agency. While we accept Penny’s explanation that these incidents were unintended mistakes and not a result of using banned substances, such regulations are vital for maintaining fair competition among athletes.” She added, “Penny will not be part of the national team during this time, but we are hopeful she will return when she’s eligible.”

In accordance with the World Anti-Doping Code, missing three tests or failing to declare whereabouts within a year qualifies as a violation. Oleksiak was notified of her missed tests by the ITA earlier this year, leading to her suspension in July, at which point she also withdrew from the World Aquatics Championships.

When pulling out of the World Aquatics Championships, Oleksiak stated, “I have always been and always will be a clean athlete and I will not be making any further comments at this time.”

At just 25, Oleksiak has an impressive Olympic history, including one gold, two silver, and four bronze medals, tying her with sprinter Andre de Grasse for the most medals by any Canadian athlete, male or female.

Additionally, Oleksiak has secured nine medals at World Championships, boasting two silver and seven bronze throughout her athletic career.