World Boxing Federation introduces 'gender test' requirement

The World Boxing Federation will implement a mandatory 'gender test' for athletes participating in competitions.

World Boxing said in a statement that mandatory testing would be part of a new policy on "gender, age and weight" to ensure the safety of all participants and to provide competitive play for men and women.

The explanation is as follows:

“In light of the plans for the implementation of this policy and the special circumstances surrounding some boxers competing in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the World Boxing Federation has written to the Algerian Boxing Federation to inform them that Imane Khelif will not be allowed to compete in the female category at the Eindhoven Boxing Cup or any World Boxing event until she undergoes genetic gender screening in accordance with testing procedures.”

Algerian boxer Imane Khelif won the gold medal in the women's 66kg category at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.