What observers say
“Of course, I would accept doing anything I’m required to do to participate in competitions,” stated Imane Khelif, a gold medalist in the women’s welterweight boxing category at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This declaration comes amid significant changes to the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) policy regarding transgender athletes and those with Differences in Sex Development (DSD).
The IOC has announced that starting with the 2028 Los Angeles Games, transgender women and athletes with DSD will be banned from competing in female Olympic categories. This decision has sparked widespread debate and concern among athletes and advocates for transgender rights. The new policy stipulates that all athletes wishing to compete in women’s events must undergo a one-off SRY gene test to determine their biological sex, which can be conducted through a saliva, cheek swab, or blood test.
Khelif, who has faced scrutiny over her gender eligibility, has consistently denied being transgender and has taken steps to lower her testosterone levels. In 2023, she encountered controversy regarding gender eligibility tests with the International Boxing Association (IBA). Her legal representatives have argued that the IBA lacked transparent testing protocols during the disqualification process.
The IOC’s decision is rooted in the belief that it would not be fair for biological males to compete in the female category. Kirsty Coventry, a member of the IOC, emphasized, “It would not be fair for biological males to compete in the female category,” reinforcing the organization’s stance on maintaining fairness in women’s sports. Coventry also noted that the policy is based on scientific research and has been led by medical experts, stating, “The policy that we have announced is based on science and has been led by medical experts.”
While the IOC’s new rules prioritize biological metrics over other factors in determining eligibility for women’s events, they do not apply to grassroots or recreational sports programs. This distinction has raised questions about the implications of such policies on the broader landscape of sports.
In terms of performance advantages, studies suggest that biological males may have a significant edge in various athletic events. For instance, male athletes have been found to have a 10-12% performance advantage in most running and swimming events, and over 20% in throwing and jumping events. In explosive power events, this advantage can reach as high as 100%.
The IOC’s policy aims to protect fairness, safety, and integrity in women’s sports, a goal that Khelif appears to support. Her willingness to undergo testing reflects her commitment to competing fairly, even amidst the controversies surrounding gender eligibility in sports. As the 2028 Games approach, the implications of these new policies will continue to unfold, shaping the future of competition for athletes like Khelif.
