Starting in 2028, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced that only those female athletes who confirm their gender through a genetic test will be allowed to participate in women's competitions at the Olympic Games and other events under its auspices.
Kirsty Coventry, head of the IOC, stated: "As a former athlete, I believe in every Olympian's right to fair competition. Our policy is based on scientific data and has been developed with the involvement of medical experts. At the Olympic Games, even the slightest differences can lead to victory or defeat. It is unfair for biological males to compete in the women's category, and in some cases, it may be unsafe."
Now, all those wishing to compete in the women's category will have to undergo a one-time test for the presence of the SRY gene (Sex-determining Region Y), which is typically found on the Y chromosome and is responsible for male development. The test is usually conducted by taking a swab from the inside of the cheek.
The IOC stated: "Based on scientific data, we have concluded that the presence of the SRY gene persists throughout life and is a reliable confirmation that the athlete developed as male."
As reported by BBC Sports, previously the IOC left the decision on the admission of transgender athletes to the discretion of the sports federations of various sports.
In March 2023, the World Athletics governing body banned transgender women from participating in major women's competitions if they transitioned after male puberty. Previously, such athletes could compete provided their testosterone levels remained below 2.5 nanomoles per liter for two years. Mandatory genetic testing for participants in women's competitions will also be introduced starting in September 2025.
