Australian Swimmers Warned Against Publicly Thanking Sponsor Gina Rinehart at Commonwealth Games

Australian swimmers competing at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow have been instructed not to publicly acknowledge mining magnate Gina Rinehart, who is offering substantial bonuses for medal winners. Those who mention her name during the event risk facing hefty fines and breaching their official contracts.

Hancock Prospecting chair Gina Rinehart announced a bonus scheme this week, offering thousands of dollars to swimmers who secure medals. Individual gold medalists are set to receive $20,000, silver medalists $15,000, and bronze medalists $10,000. Furthermore, athletes breaking a world record will be awarded $30,000, with team members in record-breaking relay events receiving $7,500 each. Payments are to be processed within two weeks of the Games' conclusion.

Rinehart stated that the bonuses are a way to show appreciation for the athletes and to celebrate their achievements, which she believes make Australians proud. She highlighted that her company, Hancock Prospecting, is a significant private supporter of Australian Olympic sports and that these bonuses are separate from any official Commonwealth Games Australia agreements.

Chef de Mission Petria Thomas confirmed that Commonwealth Games Australia is not involved in Rinehart's bonus scheme. "That's not something that CGA is involved in whatsoever," Thomas told The Herald Sun. "I mean, good luck to the swimmers, I guess. They've got someone backing that performance but that's a separate matter for them."

Rinehart expressed pride in supporting the Australian team, calling the athletes "outstanding ambassadors for Australia" who inspire millions. She noted that a swimmer winning three individual gold medals and breaking a world record could earn up to $90,000.

Australia has a strong history in Commonwealth Games swimming, having won 330 gold medals since 1930, making it the best-performing country in the sport at the Games. Elite swimmers, such as eight-time Olympic medalist Cate Campbell, have previously acknowledged Rinehart's substantial contributions to the sport.