World Aquatics Nears $4.6 Million Settlement Over ISL Antitrust Suit

World Aquatics has agreed to a $4.6 million settlement in a long-running antitrust lawsuit brought by Olympic swimmers, including Tom Shields and Katinka Hosszu, who challenged the governing body's attempts to block the International Swimming League's (ISL) entry into competitive swimming. The lawsuit alleged that World Aquatics, formerly FINA, imposed rules that restricted athletes from participating in ISL events without risking bans from World Aquatics-sanctioned competitions, effectively limiting their earning opportunities. The settlement fund will compensate swimmers who competed in the ISL's 2018 and 2019 seasons, with the organization acknowledging that many athletes were financially harmed by the dispute. The deal also prohibits World Aquatics from enforcing any rule that restricts the organization of independent swimming events, thereby granting athletes greater autonomy and additional competitive opportunities. World Aquatics President Husain Al Musallam expressed relief at resolving the issue and reaffirmed the organization's commitment to supporting athletes and developing the sport. However, a related lawsuit filed by the ISL against World Aquatics will continue, with a jury trial scheduled for January 2026.