The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is reportedly moving closer to implementing a universal ban on transgender women competing in female categories across all sports. IOC president Kirsty Coventry, who pledged such action during her election campaign, has been overseeing ongoing discussions through a dedicated working group. Although the IOC maintains that no final decision has been reached, recent briefings to members suggest a ban could be announced as early as next year.

The shifting approach follows increased concerns in global sport over fairness and athlete safety. Several international federations, including World Rugby, World Aquatics, and World Athletics, have already barred those who experienced male puberty from elite female competition. In the United States, President Donald Trump signed an executive order in February restricting transgender women from competing in female categories, including at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

Transgender participation has sparked high-profile debates at recent Games, such as New Zealand weightlifter Laurel Hubbard at Tokyo 2020. The issue resurfaced at Paris 2024 when Algerian boxer Imane Khelif won gold after prior gender eligibility scrutiny—though the IOC confirmed she and fellow boxer Lin Yu-ting were permitted to compete based on their legal female status. As the IOC works toward a global policy, the aim remains to find consensus between inclusion and competitive integrity.

Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright