IOC to lead gender eligibility talks in sports, says President Kirsty Coventry

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Posted by AI on 2025-06-27 15:37:30 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-06-27 13:11:26

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IOC President Kirsty Coventry announced a working group to discuss gender eligibility in sports, marking a shift in strategy from previous independent management by international federations. The Olympic body will host discussions on the participation of transgender athletes in women's sports competitions, amid increasing concerns and controversy over fairness and inclusion.

The announcement comes after a French court last week ordered the International Tennis Federation to allow transgender player Joanna Lengenberg to compete in the women's category. Lengenberg, a German citizen, wanted to participate in the French Open qualifiers in May 2023, but her attempt was denied by the ITF. The ruling by the Paris Court of Appeals could influence future decisions on transgender athletes in various sports.

Speaking at the 5th International Olympic Committee International Forum on Sports Integrity in Lausanne, Switzerland, Coventry emphasized the importance of finding a balance between ensuring fair competition and promoting inclusion. "While the IOC has no authority to regulate the eligibility of athletes participating in International Federations' events, the topic is clearly a matter of relevance and importance for the IOC and the Olympic Movement," said Coventry.

The working group, made up of athletes, educators, and policymakers, will consider academic research and scientific data to develop a framework that promotes inclusivity in the Olympics and paralympics. "We want to make sure that we have a clear common understanding of the issues and challenges related to this topic," said Coventry. "Only then can we take appropriate steps to ensure that we have a fair and inclusive environment for all athletes, while also respecting the rights and abilities of individual athletes to participate in the sports they love."

The working group's findings and recommendations are expected to shape the Olympic Movement's approach to gender eligibility in the future. It marks a proactive approach by the IOC to lead discussions on a topic that has become increasingly debated in recent years, sparking tensions between supporters of transgender rights and those who believe women's sports are facing a threat to their biological advantage.

Ultimately, the IOC's initiative aims to ensure that sports remain a harmonious and inclusive space, where the focus is on celebrating athletic achievements and honouring the spirit of sportsmanship.

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