IOC Expected to Introduce New Eligibility Rules That May Exclude Transgender Women Ahead of LA 2028

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is expected to introduce new eligibility regulations that could possibly prevent transgender women from competing in female categories at the Olympic Games, with the potential changes anticipated to be formalised ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

The development would mark a shift under IOC president, Kirsty Coventry, who began her term following Paris 2024. Coventry, a two-time Olympic swimming gold medallist, has been leading work to establish a more uniform global policy, replacing the current model where each international sport federation sets its own eligibility criteria.

Scientific Review Driving Policy Direction

The IOC’s medical and scientific director Dr Jane Thornton recently presented early findings to IOC members, reportedly outlining evidence that individuals who experienced male puberty may retain certain physiological advantages even after testosterone suppression.

The IOC confirmed discussions are ongoing, stating no final decision has yet been reached.

However, senior Olympic officials are believed to be working toward a centralised framework that would apply across all sports.

This shift comes amid heightened global debate around fairness, inclusion, and competitive integrity in women’s sport.

Legal and Sporting Context

The IOC is expected to proceed cautiously, acknowledging the potential for legal challenges, particularly concerning athletes with differences in sexual development (DSD), a category already subject to scrutiny in high-performance sport.

The issue gained prominence at Paris 2024 when boxers Imane Khelif (Algeria) and Lin Yu-Ting (Chinese Taipei) competed amid public discussion relating to previous eligibility disputes. Both are not transgender, but their cases highlighted the complexities of existing regulations and the public sensitivity of the topic.

Meanwhile, several federations including World Athletics, World Aquatics, and World Rugby have already moved to restrict participation for transgender women who underwent male puberty.

Looking Ahead to Los Angeles 2028

If implemented, the policy shift would represent the most significant redefinition of Olympic eligibility since transgender participation was first formally recognised in 2004.

The IOC will continue consulting international federations, medical experts, athlete groups, and legal bodies before confirming any rule changes.

Further updates are expected throughout 2026 as the LA 2028 qualification cycle draws closer.

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