Trans Athletes Facing Olympic Ban in Women’s Events, Reports Indicate
World Boxing is implementing mandatory sex testing for all female competitors, a move widely interpreted as a ban on transgender athletes in women’s boxing at the Olympic Games, according to reports. The policy, enacted following concerns raised about Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, will require all athletes to undergo testing to prove their eligibility to compete in the female category.
The shift comes amid a growing global debate surrounding the participation of transgender athletes in women’s sports, with proponents of the new rules arguing they are necessary to ensure fair competition. Khelif,who advanced to the semi-finals at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games after defeating Anna Luca hamori of Hungary on August 3,will be unable to continue competing until she completes the required sex testing.
This progress reflects a broader trend within international sporting bodies to establish clearer guidelines regarding transgender inclusion. Concerns center on potential physical advantages retained after transitioning, leading to calls for policies that prioritize fairness for cisgender female athletes. World Boxing’s decision aligns with similar measures taken by other sports organizations, including swimming’s governing body, FINA, which previously restricted transgender women’s participation in elite competitions.
The new regulations require all boxers to demonstrate they meet specific criteria to be classified as female, though the exact details of the testing process have not been fully disclosed. Athletes who do not comply with the testing requirements will be barred from competing in women’s events.
Fox News Digital reported that Khelif’s case specifically prompted the policy change. The athlete’s participation had drawn scrutiny, contributing to the urgency for clearer eligibility standards.
Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor for Fox News Digital.
