Speedo blasted the Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA) move to ban swimsuit technology that led to numerous world records over the last year, claiming the ban decision will ultimately harm the sport. Among other points, Speedo said, “Any move which seems to take the sport back two decades such as a possible return to the traditional female swimsuit and male jammer – is a retrograde step that could be detrimental to the future of swimming.”
As reported, FINA ruled Friday that males will be restricted to suits that run from the waist to the knees (known as jammers) and females to suits that can't go past the shoulders or below the knees. The ban does not start until 2010, but the polyurethane-based swimsuit era that was first introduced by Speedo with its LZR Laser model in the lead-up to last years Beijing Olympics will effectively be discontinued at the swimming world championships that starting on Sunday.
The swimsuit technology led to 108 world records last year and almost 30 already this year. Speedo also sponsors prominent teams such as the United States, Australia and Britain.
Speedo's full statement follows:
Speedo is fully committed to safeguarding the reputation of the sport of swimming at every level and for this reason we will await a confirmation from FINA about their final decision regarding approved swimwear rules for 2010 before making further comment.
However, we would like to re-iterate that Speedo has always operated within the rules of the sport and will continue to do so, investing in research and development to ensure that we continue to lead the way in high performance swimwear that meets the approval of both the governing body and the most important people, the athletes themselves.
As a forward thinking company, that has invested millions in R&D, we believe that technology properly monitored and adhering to guidelines – does have a place in all sport. Any move which seems to take the sport back two decades such as a possible return to the traditional female swimsuit and male jammer – is a retrograde step that could be detrimental to the future of swimming.
We recognise the catastrophic effect and controversy that the introduction of fully non-permeable wetsuits by certain manufacturers has had on the sport of swimming in recent months. Speedo has always believed that there is no place in the sport for buoyancy aids. We were and remain highly supportive of FINAs Dubai Charter which recommended the banning of these suits from January 2010, whilst allowing some elements of non-permeable materials.
The Speedo LZR Racer suit, which was developed in strict accordance with FINA rules and regulations and fully approved by FINA in 2007, has had an unprecedented positive impact on the sport of swimming since its launch. Developed over a three year period with the input of over 400 swimmers, coaches and experts, the swimming community by and large welcomed the benefits the suit brings whilst recognising that it upheld the integrity of athletes as it does not aid buoyancy.
For over 80 years, we have taken a lead role in supporting the sport from grass roots all the way to elite levels. We have been responsible for every major legal innovation in swimwear since 1928. Speedo remains totally dedicated to the sport of swimming at every level.
