Daijiworld Media Network - Geneva

Geneva, Mar 27: The International Olympic Committee has decided to bar transgender women from competing in women’s events at the Olympics, with the new rule set to come into effect from the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.

The decision was finalised during a meeting in Geneva, with the IOC stating that only biological females will be eligible for women’s categories. Athletes will be required to undergo a one-time gene test to confirm eligibility.

IOC president Kirsty Coventry said the move is aimed at maintaining fairness in competition, noting that biological differences could influence performance at elite levels. The test will focus on identifying the SRY gene linked to male biological development.

The IOC clarified that the policy will not apply retrospectively and will only govern Olympic-level competitions. The decision is expected to spark debate globally as preparations continue for the 2028 Olympics.