The international sports organization World Boxing plans to introduce a mandatory sex-testing policy for boxers who want to compete in its upcoming events.
“The introduction of mandatory testing will be part of a new policy on ‘Sex, Age and Weight’ to ensure the safety of all participants and deliver a competitive level playing field for men and women,” read the release.
Khelif faced calls to withdraw from the Olympics after being disqualified by the International Boxing Association (IBA) from the 2023 World Championships for failing a chromosome-based gender verification test.
“This decision reflects concerns over the safety and well-being of all boxers, including Imane Khelif, and aims to protect the mental and physical health of all participants in light of some of the reactions that have been expressed,” said the release.
Per the new policy, all athletes over 18 must undergo a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) laboratory genetic test, conducted either by nasal/mouth swab, saliva, or blood, to determine their sex at birth and their eligibility to compete.
“World Boxing respects the dignity of all individuals and its overriding priority is to ensure safety and competitive fairness to all athletes.
“To do this, it is essential that strict categories determined by sex are maintained and enforced, and means that World Boxing will only operate competitions for athletes categorized as male or female.”
Failure to adhere to these rules will result in an athlete being unable to compete and may lead to sanctions against the athlete and/or the athlete’s national federation.
World Boxing, which currently consists of over 100 member federations, will replace the IBA in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles after being granted provisional recognition by the International Olympic Committee.