Will Khelif Undergo a Sex Test for the 2028 Olympics?

Algerian boxer Imane Khelif has declared her willingness to undergo a sex test mandated by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. This stance comes in the wake of controversies surrounding her gender eligibility, particularly after the International Boxing Association (IBA) disqualified her and a fellow athlete over gender eligibility concerns. Khelif, who won gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics, insists she has "nothing to hide" and is committed to complying with testing requirements to protect the integrity of women's sports.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Imane Khelif's recent comments highlight ongoing debates over gender eligibility in sports, particularly in women's categories. After facing scrutiny and disqualification from the World Championships, Khelif has been cleared to compete by the IOC, which has taken steps to regulate gender eligibility more strictly. Her willingness to take a sex test underscores her commitment to competing fairly while also bringing attention to the complexities surrounding gender identity in athletics.

Key takeaways

• Imane Khelif is open to undergoing IOC-mandated sex testing for Olympic eligibility.
• She was previously disqualified by the IBA over gender eligibility concerns but has since been cleared by the IOC.
• Khelif's appeal against mandatory genetic tests by the new governing body, World Boxing, is still pending.

Timeline: how we got here

The controversy surrounding Imane Khelif has evolved through several key events:

• June 2023: The IOC strips the IBA of its recognition, affecting gender eligibility protocols.
• August 2023: Khelif and Lin Yu-ting are disqualified from the World Championships due to alleged failures in gender eligibility testing.
• February 2025: The IOC provisionally recognises World Boxing, which implements genetic tests for athletes.
• October 2023: Khelif expresses her willingness to comply with IOC testing protocols for the upcoming Olympic Games.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Khelif's recent statements to CNN affirming her readiness to undergo sex testing for Olympic participation signal a proactive stance in addressing the challenges of gender eligibility in sports. This comes amid ongoing scrutiny and the introduction of new testing protocols by World Boxing.

What was already established

Previously, Khelif faced disqualification from major competitions due to disputes over her gender eligibility, a situation that has been complicated by external political narratives, including remarks from figures such as former US President Donald Trump.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The implications of the Khelif case for UK sports and audiences are significant. As discussions around gender eligibility continue, they may influence policies in British sports, impacting how athletes are treated and how competitions are structured.

Businesses and jobs

The evolving landscape of gender eligibility in sports could lead to changes in regulations that affect athletes, coaches, and sports organisations, as they adapt to new requirements and standards set by governing bodies.

Policy and regulation

The UK sports regulatory framework may see adjustments in response to international developments surrounding gender eligibility, particularly as the IOC and other bodies refine their testing protocols. Upcoming consultations and discussions may shape future policies for professional and amateur sports.

Numbers that matter

• 2028: The year Khelif aims to compete in the Los Angeles Olympics.
• 2024: Year Khelif won gold in women's welterweight at the Paris Olympics.
• 2: Number of athletes disqualified from the World Championships due to gender eligibility concerns.

Definitions and jargon buster

• IOC: International Olympic Committee, the governing body for the Olympic Games.
• IBA: International Boxing Association, the former governing body for boxing events.
• World Boxing: The new governing body for international boxing, established in 2025.
• Gender eligibility tests: Assessments to determine an athlete's eligibility to compete in a specific gender category.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Athletes and sporting bodies should closely monitor developments regarding Khelif's case and the implications of the pending appeal regarding mandatory genetic testing.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Expect further announcements from the IOC and World Boxing regarding the enforcement of gender eligibility tests and potential adjustments to policies affecting athletes across various sports.

Signals to watch

• Updates on Khelif's appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
• New policy announcements from the IOC regarding gender eligibility testing.
• Responses from UK sports governing bodies to international developments in gender eligibility regulations.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about regulatory changes regarding gender eligibility in sports.
• Engage with athletes and organisations advocating for fair and inclusive policies.

Don’t

• Don’t dismiss the complexities of gender identity and its implications in sports.
• Don’t overlook the potential impact of international developments on UK sports.

Checklist

• Review the latest guidelines from governing bodies regarding gender eligibility.
• Follow Khelif's case and its outcomes closely.
• Engage in discussions about inclusivity and fairness in sports.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Khelif's case underscores the importance of gender eligibility in sports, the situation remains fraught with complexities. The introduction of mandatory genetic tests raises ethical concerns and could face legal challenges. Additionally, the evolving landscape of gender identity may continue to challenge traditional notions of eligibility, necessitating ongoing dialogue and review of policies.

Bottom line

Imane Khelif's willingness to comply with IOC testing requirements reflects her commitment to competing fairly while bringing attention to the intricate issues surrounding gender in sports. As the situation develops, it is crucial for stakeholders in the UK and beyond to consider the implications for both athletes and policy frameworks in the sporting community.

FAQs

What is Imane Khelif's position on sex testing?

Imane Khelif has stated that she would accept undergoing sex tests conducted by the IOC to ensure her eligibility to compete in the 2028 Olympics.

What controversies has Khelif faced regarding her gender eligibility?

Khelif was disqualified from the World Championships alongside another athlete due to alleged failures in gender eligibility testing, which has raised questions about her participation in women's sports.

What is the current status of the appeal regarding mandatory tests?

Khelif has lodged an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport against the introduction of mandatory genetic tests by World Boxing, with a hearing pending.