USA Swimming is considering reinstating Michael Phelps to its team for this year's World Championships, despite an initial ban due to drink-diving.
The 18-time Olympic gold medallist was suspended for six months in October after being found guilty of driving under the influence of alcohol in Baltimore on September 30.
Phelps received a suspended sentence along with 18 months' probation and, as part of his ban, was initially prohibited from representing Team USA at the 2015 Worlds.
However, USA Swimming executive director Chuck Wielgus has hinted at a possible lifting of the ban.
"It's complicated, but there are ways in which it could happen," Wielgus told ESPN.
"There's a pathway for things to be reconsidered - or considered."
Phelps plans to make his return in next month's Arena Pro Swim Series in Mesa, Arizona.