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IOC Weighs Universal Ban on Transgender Women in Female Events, Reports Say

An internal scientific review pointing to retained male-born advantages has prompted the IOC to draft universal eligibility rules for possible release in early 2026.

Overview

  • The IOC said its Protection of the Female Category working group is still deliberating and that no decision has been taken.
  • Multiple outlets report the IOC is preparing a blanket policy that would bar athletes who underwent male puberty from women’s events, with scope likely to include some DSD cases.
  • Medical chief Dr Jane Thornton briefed members that advantages persist after testosterone suppression, and members were updated on possible sex-verification methods such as SRY checks.
  • Plans under discussion include announcing legally vetted, formal IOC eligibility criteria early next year, potentially around the Milan-Cortina session.
  • The push follows Paris 2024 boxing controversies and mounting external pressure, as several federations have already tightened rules and U.S. policy moves target participation ahead of LA 2028.