The 2026 Pan Pacific Championships, set to take place in Irvine, California, from August 12-15, is shaping up to be a highly anticipated event. However, several notable absences have been announced, which will undoubtedly impact the dynamics of the competition. Here's a breakdown of some of the key names and their reasons for not participating.
Kaylee McKeown
One of the most prominent absences is Australian backstroke ace Kaylee McKeown. She was forced to withdraw from both the Commonwealth Games and these Pan Pac Championships due to contracting mononucleosis, also known as glandular fever. McKeown's absence will be particularly felt in the backstroke events, as she was set to face off against her international rival, Regan Smith of the United States. McKeown's world rankings in the backstroke events, including her top performance in the 200 back, further emphasize her significance in the sport.
Cam McEvoy
Another notable absence is Australian sprint ace Cam McEvoy, who has opted to focus on the Commonwealth Games. McEvoy's decision to skip the Pan Pacific Championships means he won't be competing in the 50 freestyle event, which is loaded with US talent, including Jack Alexy, Michael Andrew, and Quintin McCarty. McEvoy's world-record-breaking 50 freestyle swim at the China Open earlier this season further highlights his potential impact on the event.
Tomoru Honda
Japanese swimmer Tomoru Honda, an Olympic silver medalist, is also out of the Pan Pacs due to a legal issue. He was indicted for violating an Act on Punishment of Offenses relating to Driving, which will keep him out of both the Pan Pacific Championships and the Asian Games. Honda was set to race in the 200 butterfly, 100 fly, and 400 IM events, and his absence will be a significant blow to the Japanese team.
Mollie O'Callaghan
Australian freestyle and backstroke talent Mollie O'Callaghan has also been forced to withdraw from the Pan Pacs due to lingering back issues. Despite her injury, O'Callaghan performed well at the Commonwealth Games, winning gold in the 200 free and contributing to Australian women's relay victories. Her absence will impact the freestyle and backstroke events, where she was set to compete against top stars like Gretchen Walsh and Kate Douglass.
Kyle Chalmers
Another Australian talent, Kyle Chalmers, has chosen the Commonwealth Games over the Pan Pacific Championships, citing financial bonuses from a sponsorship deal. Chalmers' decision means he won't be competing in the sprint freestyle events, leaving the Australian team without their top 50 and 100 freestyler. His absence will be felt in the potential matchups against Michael Andrew and Van Mathias.
These absences will undoubtedly impact the dynamics of the 2026 Pan Pacific Championships, creating opportunities for other swimmers to step up and potentially shine in their respective events.
