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World Boxing Apologizes to Imane Khelif as Genetic Testing Rule Prompts Her Withdrawal

World Boxing’s mandatory genetic screening rule for boxers over 18 aims to protect participant safety through eligibility checks to maintain competitive equity

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Overview

  • World Boxing president Boris van der Vorst sent formal apologies to Khelif and the Algerian Boxing Federation for naming the Olympic champion in its initial announcement about mandatory genetic testing.
  • Khelif confirmed she would not participate in the June 5–10 Eindhoven Box Cup after World Boxing mandated a one-time genetic test for all boxers over 18.
  • The one-time genetic screening policy is designed to verify sex eligibility and address safety and fairness concerns in women’s boxing events.
  • Eindhoven’s mayor publicly criticized the policy and urged World Boxing to admit Khelif to the tournament despite the new testing requirement.
  • World Boxing stated the genetic testing rule applies universally to all athletes and clarified that past competition results will not be subject to retroactive review.