Transgender women are set to be prohibited from participating in women’s events at the Olympic Games. The decision by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) stems from a scientific review revealing the inherent physical advantages of being biologically male.
A recent report from The Times indicates that the IOC is poised to unveil a new policy early next year. Previously, the IOC allowed transgender women to compete with reduced testosterone levels, leaving the decision to individual sports federations.
Under the leadership of new president Kirsty Coventry, the IOC is shifting its stance to safeguard the integrity of women’s sports. Dr. Jane Thornton, the committee’s medical and scientific director and a former Canadian Olympic rower, shared the initial review findings with IOC members in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Thornton emphasized that scientific evidence supports the enduring physical benefits of male biology, even after transgender athletes undergo hormone therapy. Sources present at the meeting described the presentation as objective and well-received by IOC members.
The IOC’s current statement on Olympics.com emphasizes non-discrimination based on gender identity or sex characteristics for athletes meeting eligibility criteria set by their respective International Federations (IFs).
Controversy arose during the boxing competition at the Paris Olympics when gold medals were awarded to two boxers, Imane Khelif from Algeria and Lin Yu-Ting from Taiwan, despite prior disqualifications for gender eligibility issues. The International Boxing Federation, recognized by the IOC post-Paris, has now implemented mandatory sex testing, barring Khelif from competing in the female category until compliance.
The IOC is expected to announce its revised policy in early 2026, possibly coinciding with the Winter Olympics in February. Coventry emphasized the need for a scientific approach and collaboration with international federations to ensure the protection of women’s sports.
In other news, Sky has reduced prices for its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, offering over 1,400 live matches across various leagues. Sky will broadcast a minimum of 215 live Premier League games next season, a significant increase from previous seasons.