CrossFit said it has finalised its third-party investigation into Lazar Đukić’s death during the first event of the 2024 CrossFit Games. However, the results and findings of this investigation will not be made public. CrossFit also released a document stating 6 actions it is taking after the findings – spoiler alert: Dave Castro will not be removed from his position as PFAA asked for.
Lazar Đukić’s cause of death, which took place on August 8th 2024, was officially drowning, as reported by BOXROX. The day after the tragedy, CrossFit CEO Don Faul released a statement saying a third-party investigation was taking place. A few days after the end of the 2024 CrossFit Games, Don Faul released another statement claiming that CrossFit is “committed to implementing any necessary changes that are determined based on the results of this investigation.”
The day has finally come. However, the public will not be able to see what the third-party investigation found, as explained in a newly released statement by CrossFit.
“We are not publishing a full report based on privacy and legal considerations. The results of the investigation have been reported to our Board of Directors.”
What Happens Now
According to CrossFit, the focus now is to “move forward with actions that maximize our continued commitment to safety at the CrossFit Games.”
For that, it has released a 6-point ‘actions and steps’ to minimise tragic events.
- Introducing a Safety Leadership Role
CrossFit will appoint a senior safety leader to centralise safety protocols, create emergency action plans, oversee rehearsals, and ensure sufficient resources are in place. This leader will report to CrossFit CEO Don Faul and Sport Organisation Head Dave Castro, with the role expected to be filled before the next CrossFit Games season. - Establishing a CrossFit Games Safety Advisory Board
A new advisory board of medical professionals, safety experts, and athletes will oversee risks and protocols, provide feedback, and support athletes. The board will have an active presence at future Games, with members announced by year-end. - Suspending Open-Water Swimming Events
Open-water swimming events will remain suspended. Future swimming components will only occur in controlled environments like pools, ensuring close monitoring by safety teams. - Enhancing Rehearsals, Protocols, and Emergency Resources
Starting with the 2025 Games, there will be more robust rehearsals, detailed safety briefings for athletes, and mandatory on-site paramedic teams and ambulances at all events, regardless of local regulations. - Expanding Mental Health Resources
On-site mental health professionals will be integrated into medical teams at the 2025 Games, offering support for athletes and staff dealing with competition stress or other issues. - Creating an Athlete Council
A new Athlete Council, elected by athletes, will ensure broader representation and influence on competition protocols, safety, welfare, and other sport-related matters. Council members will be chosen by early 2025.
You can read the entire statement from CrossFit here.
CrossFit also revealed it will communicate “important details before the end of the week.”
