The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has officially approved a new policy that will reshape eligibility rules for the women’s category at the Olympic Games. Starting with the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, only biological females will be allowed to compete, with mandatory SRY gene screening introduced as the standard.
This decision, endorsed by the IOC Executive Board, is designed to ensure fairness and safety in elite competition. The SRY gene, typically found on the Y chromosome, is linked to male sex development. Athletes who test negative for this gene will be permanently eligible to compete in women’s events. The test, conducted through saliva, cheek swab, or blood sample, will only need to be performed once unless results are questioned.
Those who test positive for the SRY gene will not qualify for women’s competitions, except in rare cases such as Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS) or other conditions where testosterone does not provide a performance advantage. These athletes will still be able to participate in men’s events, mixed competitions, or open categories.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry emphasized that the policy is based on scientific evidence and aims to protect the integrity of women’s sports. She highlighted the importance of treating athletes with dignity and respect, ensuring they receive proper education, counselling, and medical support throughout the process.
The policy follows a comprehensive review conducted between 2024 and 2026, involving consultations with medical, legal, and ethical experts, as well as feedback from over 1,100 athletes worldwide. A working group concluded that male sex provides performance advantages in strength, power, and endurance sports, recommending biological sex as the basis for eligibility.
Importantly, the IOC clarified that these rules apply only to elite-level competitions under its jurisdiction and not to grassroots or recreational sports. Athlete privacy, mental health, and safeguarding remain central to the framework, with national federations expected to uphold confidentiality while supporting athletes through the screening process.
