The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced that transgender women athletes will be excluded from the Olympic Games starting in 2028. Image:IOC
Transgender
The International Olympic Committee says the new policy aims to protect fairness and safety in women’s sport, sparking global debate.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced that transgender women athletes will be excluded from the Olympic Games starting in 2028.
On Thursday, IOC President Kirsty Coventry said the newly introduced policy is intended to protect the integrity of women’s sport.
“As a former athlete, I passionately believe in the rights of all Olympians to take part in fair competition. The policy we have announced is based on science and has been led by medical experts. At the Olympic Games, even the smallest margins can be the difference between victory and defeat,” said Coventry.
She added that allowing biological males to compete in the female category would not be fair, and in some sports could pose safety concerns.
Coventry emphasised that all athletes must be treated with dignity and respect, noting that screening processes will only need to be conducted once in an athlete’s lifetime. She also highlighted the importance of clear education around the implementation of the new policy.
