World Aquatics Championships open water races to proceed after E. coli concerns ease
In its latest statement, the sport's governing body confirmed that samples taken on 15 July 2025 have met the competition's water quality standards.
The men's 10km race will begin at 1pm Singapore time, followed by the women's 10km at 4pm.
Analysis of three water samples collected along the course at 5pm on 15 July showed E. coli levels ranging from 'good' to 'excellent', according to World Aquatics regulations.
Officials had postponed the men's and women's 10km races on Tuesday, citing unacceptable water quality levels.
Tests from samples collected last Sunday showed elevated E. coli levels that exceeded safe thresholds.
Brent Nowicki, World Aquatics executive director, said the bacteria levels forced organisers to delay the races to safeguard athletes' health.
He added that the exact source of contamination remains unclear.
E. coli bacteria naturally occur in the intestines of humans and animals but can cause illness if harmful strains are ingested. Symptoms include diarrhoea and vomiting.
Nowicki said World Aquatics follows limits set by the World Health Organization and uses independent agencies for testing.
In the weeks leading up to the Championships, water samples had met required safety standards.
World Aquatics assured participants that regular water quality monitoring would continue throughout the competition to ensure safety.
Tickets issued for the original women's 10km race remain valid for today's rescheduled session. Ticketholders seeking refunds must submit requests to Sistic by 20 July 2025.
Sentosa is hosting the Championships' high diving and open water events.
This edition of the Championships, which began on 11 July and concludes on 3 August 2025, is the first to be held in a Southeast Asian nation.
The event also includes swimming, water polo, diving, and artistic swimming.
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