The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced a significant ruling regarding the eligibility criteria for the women’s category in Olympic events, effective from the LA 2028 Games. Under the new policy, only biological females will qualify to compete in this category.

This ruling introduces a one-time gene-screening test to determine eligibility, a decision aimed at ensuring fairness and enhancing safety, particularly in contact sports. The IOC has stated that any athlete found to possess the SRY gene will be deemed ineligible for the women’s category.

The IOC emphasizes that the presence of the SRY gene is a permanent marker indicating that an athlete has undergone male sex development, which they consider scientifically valid evidence.

The policy revision follows a review conducted after the 2024 Paris Olympics and was publicly announced by the new IOC president Kirsty Coventry. Since taking office last year, Coventry has expressed the need for a uniform approach to athlete eligibility. She highlighted the competitive nature of the Olympic Games, stating, "At the Olympic Games, even the smallest margins can be the difference between victory and defeat."

Coventry concluded that allowing biological males to compete in the female category would not only be unfair but could also compromise safety in certain sports. The IOC's ruling marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing discussion surrounding gender and sports, with further developments expected.