Boxing’s new world governing physique is introducing intercourse testing from July – however has already knowledgeable Imane Khelif she will not be eligible to compete as a feminine fighter at an occasion within the Netherlands subsequent week.
The Algerian’s disputed failed gender eligibility check – performed by a distinct controversial boxing physique – was a serious concern on the Paris Olympics earlier than she received gold.
World Boxing mentioned its new coverage “reflects concerns over the safety and wellbeing of all boxers, including Imane Khelif, and aims to protect the mental and physical health of all participants.”
This, it says, is “in light of some of the reactions that have been expressed in relation to the boxer’s potential participation at the Eindhoven Box Cup.”
Please use Chrome browser for a extra accessible video participant
1:17
From August 2024: Algerian boxer requires finish to ‘bullying’
The governing physique wrote to the Algerian Boxing Federation as we speak to say: “Imane Khelif might not take part within the feminine class on the Eindhoven Field Cup, 5-10 June 2025, and any World Boxing occasion till Imane Khelif undergoes genetic intercourse screening in accordance with World Boxing’s guidelines and testing procedures.
“In accordance with the World Boxing Statutes, amendments to the Competition Rules are typically made by Congress.
“Nonetheless, below particular or emergency circumstances, the World Boxing Govt Board holds the authority to make rapid amendments when a rule is deemed not practical or when evolving circumstances necessitate a change.
“In May 2025, the Executive Board exercised this authority and adopted new eligibility criteria for participation in sex-specific boxing categories.”
Picture:
Algeria’s Imane Khelif (left) celebrates victory over China’s Liu Yang on the 2024 Paris Olympics. Pic: PA.
It added: “These new eligibility rules were developed with the express purpose of safeguarding athletes in combat sports, particularly given the physical risks associated with Olympic-style boxing.”
The transfer in the direction of necessary testing kinds a part of a brand new coverage on “Sex, Age and Weight”, the boxing chiefs mentioned.
It goals to “deliver a competitive level playing field for men and women.”
The coverage – which is at present in its last levels of improvement – was created by “examining data and medical evidence” from a wide range of sources, together with world consultants.
It’s going to come into pressure on 1 July this yr – and can embody an appeals course of.
