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World Boxing Mandates Genetic Sex Testing, Bars Olympic Champion Khelif Pending Clearance

Effective July 1, the rule introduces PCR-based sex verification to uphold safety by establishing clear eligibility criteria.

Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, who won the gold medal in the women's welterweight boxing at the Olympics, holds her medal upon her arrival at the airport in Algiers, Algeria  August 12, 2024. REUTERS/Ramzi Boudina/File Photo
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Overview

  • The policy takes effect July 1 and requires athletes aged 18 and above to undergo PCR genetic testing to confirm their sex at birth.
  • Imane Khelif is barred from the female category at the Eindhoven Box Cup and all World Boxing events until she completes the mandated screening.
  • World Boxing will detect the SRY gene to differentiate male and female chromosomal patterns and assign competitors to the appropriate category.
  • An appeals process allows boxers to challenge adverse results and request review by independent clinical specialists.
  • The Executive Board enacted the policy under emergency powers to address safety and fairness concerns after the Paris Olympics gender-eligibility disputes.