IOC Restricts Women’s Category to Biological Females Ahead of 2028 Olympics
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Summary: The International Olympic Committee announced on March 26, 2026, that only biological females will be eligible to compete in women’s events at the 2028 Olympics, introducing mandatory genetic testing for athletes.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) announced on March 26, 2026, that only biological females will be eligible to compete in women’s events at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
The decision introduces a mandatory genetic screening process for athletes competing in the women’s category, marking a shift from previous guidelines that allowed individual sports federations to determine eligibility criteria.
Under the new policy, athletes will undergo a one-time genetic test to confirm eligibility. The rule effectively excludes transgender women from competing in women’s events. Some athletes with differences in sex development (DSD) may also be affected, depending on how the policy is applied.
The IOC said the decision is aimed at ensuring fairness and safety in women’s sports, citing concerns about the lasting physical advantages associated with male puberty in elite competition.
Prior to this announcement, the IOC allowed international sports federations to set their own rules regarding eligibility for women’s events. The new directive establishes a uniform standard across all Olympic sports ahead of the 2028 Games.
