Pat Vellner, a perennial CrossFit Games contender and fan favorite, has announced he will not be participating in the 2025 CrossFit Games season.
In a detailed statement shared on social media, Vellner cited concerns over leadership, athlete safety, and what he describes as a failure to enact meaningful change within the sport’s governance.
“Sometimes the best way to push for change is to take action,” Vellner wrote. “This year, I’m taking a stand by voting with my feet.”
The decision marks a significant shift for Vellner, who has competed at the CrossFit Games for nearly a decade, earning multiple podium finishes and establishing himself as one of the sport’s most consistent and well-respected athletes.
Why Vellner Is Taking a Stand
At the heart of Vellner’s decision is his growing frustration with CrossFit leadership’s lack of action on key issues raised by athletes. He highlighted long-standing concerns about athlete safety, fairness in competition, and a general disregard for athlete input.
According to Vellner, these issues came into sharp focus after the death of his friend and fellow competitor Lazar during the 2024 season.
He believes the tragedy was avoidable and points to leadership failures as a contributing factor.
“The response—or lack thereof—from CrossFit Inc. made one thing clear: meaningful change is not coming anytime soon,” Vellner said.
“For our sport to evolve, we need athlete concerns, safety, and well-being to be priorities, not ignored or dismissed.”
Vellner also called for the creation of an independent safety council with real decision-making power, a step he believes is critical to rebuilding trust and ensuring the future of the sport.
Not Retiring, Just Redirecting
While stepping away from the CrossFit Games may seem like a retirement announcement, Vellner was quick to clarify that he’s not leaving the sport. In fact, he plans to compete more than ever—just not under the CrossFit Games banner in 2025.
“First stop: WFP Indianapolis,” Vellner revealed, signaling his intention to focus on other fitness competitions that align with his values of athlete welfare and competition integrity.
Vellner remains committed to the broader CrossFit community, expressing gratitude for the life-changing experiences and friendships the sport has brought him.
He encouraged others to continue finding joy in their fitness journeys, whether that’s competing on the world stage or simply working out at their local box.
A Broader Call for Reform
Vellner’s announcement reflects a growing demand from athletes for greater transparency and leadership accountability in CrossFit.
Over the past several years, athletes have voiced concerns and proposed solutions related to competition safety, fairness, and athlete representation—many of which have gone unanswered.
“For years, we’ve worked together to bring solutions forward, but they’ve been largely dismissed,” Vellner said.
In taking a stand, Vellner hopes to push the conversation further and inspire meaningful reform.
His decision to step back from the 2025 CrossFit Games may spark greater dialogue around the future of the sport and how it can better serve its athletes.
“Right now, at least for me, rebuilding trust feels like a long road ahead,” Vellner concluded.
