Michael Phelps was planning to make a comeback at the next Olympic games, but after his recent DUI arrest, he has been suspended by the USA swimming team and will not be allowed to participate in next year’s world championships or any USA Swimming-sanctioned meets through April 6, 2015.
In addition to being banned from the sport, Phelps also lost six months of funding from the sport’s national governing body.
Phelps was banned after USA Swimming claimed that he violated the Code Of Conduct.
“Michael’s conduct was serious and required significant consequences,” said Chuck Wielgus, USA Swimming executive director. “We endorse and are here to fully support his personal development actions.”
Phelps was not happy about the decision, but accepted it.
“Michael accepts USA Swimming’s sanctions,” according to a statement from his representatives at Octagon. “He has apologized for his actions and, as he shared yesterday, is taking steps to address them.”
He later apologized to his fans and expressed his regret on his Twitter account in a series of posts.
(1/3) Earlier this morning, I was arrested and charged with DUI, excessive speeding and crossing double lane lines.
— Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) September 30, 2014
(2/3) I understand the severity of my actions and take full responsibility.
— Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) September 30, 2014
(3/3) I know these words may not mean much right now but I am deeply sorry to everyone I have let down.
— Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) September 30, 2014
He also tweeted about his suspension.
The past few days have been extremely difficult.
— Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) October 5, 2014
I recognize that this is not my first lapse in judgment, and I am extremely disappointed with myself.
— Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) October 5, 2014
I’m going to take some time away to attend a program that will provide the help I need to better understand myself.
— Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) October 5, 2014
Swimming is a major part of my life, but right now I need to focus my attention on me as an individual,
— Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) October 5, 2014
and do the necessary work to learn from this experience and make better decisions in the future.
— Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) October 5, 2014
Do you think USA Swimming’s decision was fair?