Lausanne: The new rules for Olympic women’s sport have been introduced by the International Olympic Committee, stating that only biological females will be eligible to compete in female categories. The decision has been based on guidance from medical experts and is set to take effect from the Los Angeles Olympics.
Under the updated framework, eligibility for Olympic women’s sport will be determined through a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ genetic screening test. This test will detect the presence of the SRY gene, which is part of the Y chromosome and linked to the development of male biological traits. The screening may be conducted using saliva, cheek swabs or blood samples.
Athletes who test negative for the SRY gene will permanently meet the eligibility criteria for female competitions, unless there is reason to believe the result is incorrect. This approach has been described as less intrusive compared to other testing methods and is intended to provide a clear and consistent standard.
The International Olympic Committee announces new Policy on the Protection of the Female (Women’s) Category in Olympic Sport.
Read: https://t.co/QcU5IVxyTi pic.twitter.com/3brHorx1k8
— IOC MEDIA (@iocmedia) March 26, 2026
The policy has also stated that transgender women and individuals with differences in sexual development who have undergone male puberty will not qualify for female events under these criteria. However, such athletes will still be eligible to compete in other categories, including male or open classifications.
IOC president Kirsty Coventry has said that the policy has been guided by fairness and safety considerations. Coventry has explained that even the smallest performance differences can affect outcomes at elite level competitions, making clear eligibility rules essential.
This update has marked a significant shift in how Olympic women’s sport is regulated and is expected to influence broader international sports policies. The decision has also added to ongoing global discussions around inclusion, fairness and athlete classification in sport.
