The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced a new policy outlining eligibility criteria for participation in women’s events at future Olympic Games.
In a statement released on Thursday, the IOC said athletes seeking to compete in women’s categories will be required to undergo a one-time Sex Determining Region Y (SRY) gene test, which detects the presence of the Y chromosome.
According to the committee, the policy will take effect from the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles and will not be applied retroactively.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry said the decision was informed by scientific and medical considerations.
“The policy is based on scientific evidence and has been guided by medical experts. In competitive sports, particularly those requiring strength, power, and endurance, biological differences can influence performance,” she said.
She added that the framework is intended to promote fairness and safety in women’s sports categories.
The IOC noted that the new policy must be adopted by all international sports federations participating in IOC-sanctioned events, including both the Summer and Winter Olympic Games.
The development reflects ongoing global discussions around eligibility criteria in women’s sports and the need to balance inclusion, fairness, and athlete welfare.
The announcement also comes amid broader policy shifts in some countries, including measures introduced in the United States in 2025 regarding participation in women’s sports.
The IOC stated that further guidance and implementation details will be provided to sporting bodies ahead of the 2028 Games.
