The International Olympic Committee announced Thursday it has approved a new policy restricting eligibility for women’s events at Olympic competitions to biological females, beginning with the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Under the policy, eligibility will be determined through a one-time screening for the SRY gene, with athletes who test negative qualifying for the female category. The IOC said the measure is intended to protect fairness, safety, and integrity in women’s competition and will not be applied retroactively.
Athletes who test positive for the SRY gene, including transgender and certain intersex competitors, will be ineligible for women’s events but may compete in other categories, including male or open divisions. The policy includes limited exceptions for specific medical conditions such as Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry said the decision was based on scientific and medical guidance, citing competitive fairness and athlete safety.
