Overview
- An IOC spokesperson said the working group continues deliberations on a universal framework and that no decision has been made.
- Multiple outlets, including The Guardian, The Telegraph and The Times, report the IOC is moving toward excluding anyone who experienced male puberty from the female category, with summer 2026 cited as a realistic timeline, though this remains unconfirmed.
- IOC health director Jane Thornton recently presented evidence on permanent physical advantages associated with being born male and backed the SRY genetic test via oral swab as an objective tool.
- President Donald Trump’s February executive order barring transgender athletes from female school sports and related USOPC rule changes have increased pressure ahead of Los Angeles 2028.
- Several federations already enforce stricter rules, with World Rugby and World Athletics barring athletes who underwent male puberty, World Aquatics requiring transition before age 12, and boxing bodies using SRY testing, while only a small number of transgender athletes have competed at the Olympics to date.