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 take a look at – performed by a unique controversial boxing physique – was a significant subject on the Paris Olympics earlier than she received gold.
World Boxing stated its new coverage “displays considerations over the protection and wellbeing of all boxers, together with Imane Khelif, and goals to guard the psychological and bodily well being of all contributors.”
This, it says, is “in gentle of a few of the reactions which have been expressed in relation to the boxer’s potential participation on the Eindhoven Field Cup.”
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The governing physique wrote to the Algerian Boxing Federation in the present day to say: “Imane Khelif could 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.
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“In accordance with the World Boxing Statutes, amendments to the Competitors Guidelines are usually made by Congress.
“Nevertheless, beneath particular or emergency circumstances, the World Boxing Govt Board holds the authority to make quick amendments when a rule is deemed not practical or when evolving circumstances necessitate a change.
“In Might 2025, the Govt Board exercised this authority and adopted new eligibility standards for participation in sex-specific boxing classes.”
Algeria’s Imane Khelif (left) celebrates victory over China’s Liu Yang on the 2024 Paris Olympics. Pic: PA.
It added: “These new eligibility guidelines have been developed with the specific objective of safeguarding athletes in fight sports activities, notably given the bodily dangers related to Olympic-style boxing.”
The transfer in direction of necessary testing kinds a part of a brand new coverage on “Intercourse, Age and Weight”, the boxing chiefs stated.
It goals to “ship a aggressive stage taking part in discipline for women and men.”
The coverage – which is at the moment in its remaining levels of growth – was created by “inspecting knowledge and medical proof” from a wide range of sources, together with world consultants.
It can come into drive on 1 July this 12 months – and can embody an appeals course of.