With the 2025 CrossFit Games set to take place in Albany, New York from August 1 to 3, CrossFit HQ has released a detailed statement outlining its latest safety commitments. The announcement follows increased scrutiny over athlete welfare after past incidents, including the tragic death of competitor Lazar Đukić in 2024. The new measures reflect a more structured, athlete-focused approach to event risk management.
New Head of Safety Appointed
CrossFit confirmed that Wendy Guthrie, appointed in April 2025, will oversee the implementation of all safety measures at the Games and beyond. Guthrie is responsible for coordinating efforts across medical, security, and operational teams, and for working closely with both the newly formed Safety Advisory Board and external consultants.
Safety Advisory Board Now Active
CrossFit’s independent Safety Advisory Board, first announced earlier this year, has taken on a formal role. The board includes medical professionals, former athletes, event staff, and equipment specialists. Its members will be present at the Games and easily identifiable by orange badges.
The board has been split into working groups, each focused on specific elements of event safety. These include pre-competition medical clearances, athlete-to-medical staff ratios, water safety protocols, real-time incident reporting, and risk assessment of individual events. Each group has contributed to the development of a comprehensive emergency action plan designed for real-world implementation during the Games.
Open Water Swimming Remains Suspended
Open water swimming events, a former staple of the Games, will not feature in 2025. This continues the suspension first introduced in 2024. According to the update, the decision will remain in place until the Safety Advisory Board finalises strict go and no-go criteria, along with a full range of required safety capabilities including appropriately trained responders and equipment.
Emergency Preparedness and Response Improvements
CrossFit is expanding its emergency preparedness through new systems and clearer protocols. All key staff, including judges and medical teams, will participate in full-scale pre-event rehearsals. CrossFit has also implemented the Guidepost-led Incident Command System (ICS), widely used in public safety and emergency response planning. Staff will complete ICS training before the Games begin, and roles and responsibilities are now clearly outlined across all teams.
In addition, the Games will feature enhanced radio communication, written briefings for athletes, and clearly designated safety contacts at all venues. Medical readiness has also been expanded, with Advanced Life Support available at the main arena and ambulance access at all off-site venues.
Mental Health and Emotional Support
Mental health support is now a formal part of the athlete services offered at the Games. On-site professionals will include two licensed mental health providers and two chaplains, and additional support will be available virtually. CrossFit has stated that mental wellness is a key focus of its updated athlete care model.
Involvement of the Athlete Council
Launched in January 2025, the CrossFit Athlete Council has been directly involved in safety discussions. The council represents a range of voices from across the sport including individual competitors, affiliate owners, coaches, and adaptive athletes. It has been consulted on safety planning, season structure, policies, and event-specific concerns. CrossFit has indicated that the council will continue to serve as a long-term sounding board on matters affecting athlete welfare.
Additional Measures
Other updates include background checks for volunteer medics, enhanced soft tissue recovery services through Physical Rehabilitation Network, and a more detailed 2025 Athlete Handbook. The handbook now includes safety-related roles, medical contacts, mental health resources, and emergency guidance.
Looking Ahead
CrossFit’s latest safety update signals a shift toward structured, transparent protocols with independent oversight and athlete representation. While some changes are specific to the Games, the intention is to set a precedent for broader safety improvements across the sport. With Albany preparing to host the 2025 edition, all eyes will be on how these new systems are implemented in practice.
