Transgender women are set to be prohibited from participating in female-only events at the Olympics. The decision by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) comes after a scientific review highlighted the inherent physical advantages of being biologically male.
According to a report by The Times, the IOC is expected to unveil its updated policy early next year. Previously, the IOC allowed transgender women to compete with reduced testosterone levels, leaving the final decision to individual sports organizations.
Under the leadership of new president Kirsty Coventry, the IOC is shifting its stance to safeguard the integrity of female sports. Dr. Jane Thornton, the committee’s medical and scientific director and a former Canadian Olympic rower, presented the review’s initial findings to IOC members in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Dr. Thornton reportedly emphasized the scientific evidence demonstrating the lasting physical benefits of being born male even after undergoing hormone therapy. Sources described the presentation as factual and well-received by IOC members.
The IOC’s current stance, as stated on Olympics.com, supports the participation of all qualified athletes regardless of their gender identity. However, recent controversies, such as the gender eligibility issues at the Paris Olympics boxing tournament, have prompted stricter regulations in sports like boxing.
The IOC is expected to announce its updated policy in early 2026, possibly coinciding with the Winter Olympics in February. Coventry emphasized the importance of protecting the female category while collaborating with international federations to ensure a scientific and inclusive approach.
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