Transgender women are set to be prohibited from participating in female-exclusive events at the Olympic Games. The decision by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) stems from a scientific review highlighting the inherent physical advantages of individuals born male.
According to a report by The Times, the IOC is expected to unveil its revised policy early next year. Under the leadership of new president Kirsty Coventry, the IOC aims to safeguard the integrity of women’s sports. Dr. Jane Thornton, the committee’s medical and scientific director and a former Olympic rower from Canada, presented the preliminary findings of the review to IOC members during a recent meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Thornton reportedly emphasized the enduring physical benefits of being born male, even after undergoing treatments to reduce testosterone levels. Sources described the presentation as factual and well-received by IOC members.
Currently, a statement on Olympics.com asserts the IOC’s commitment to supporting all qualified athletes, regardless of gender identity or sex characteristics. The controversy surrounding gender eligibility in sports was exemplified during the boxing tournament at the Paris Olympics, where two gold medalists had faced disqualification in a previous event.
The International Boxing Federation, recognized by the IOC post-Paris, has implemented mandatory sex testing to uphold fair competition standards. Discussions indicate that the IOC is likely to announce its updated policy in early 2026, possibly coinciding with the Winter Olympics in February.
Coventry, elected this year and a former Olympic swimmer from Zimbabwe, stressed the importance of protecting the female category while collaborating with international federations to ensure a scientific and inclusive approach to the issue.
In other news, Sky has reduced prices for its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, offering significant savings and an expanded lineup of live matches across various leagues, including the Premier League. Sky is slated to broadcast over 200 live Premier League games next season, representing a substantial increase in coverage.