World Boxing is set to introduce mandatory sex testing for all athletes over the age of 18 competing in its sanctioned events. The new policy, effective 1 July 2025, is intended to safeguard the safety, fairness, and wellbeing of all participants. It includes PCR genetic testing to confirm an athlete’s chromosomal sex at birth, and will apply to both new and existing athletes. The case of Imane Khelif has triggered early enforcement of these new rules, barring her from competition until sex testing is completed.
About the Policy:
- Introduced to ensure safety and competitive fairness in sex-specific boxing categories.
- Called the “Sex, Age and Weight” policy.
- Becomes effective 1 July 2025.
- Created by a Working Group within the World Boxing Medical and Anti-Doping Committee.
- Developed based on wide consultation and medical evidence.
- Aimed at avoiding physical risks in combat sports.
Mandatory Sex Testing:
- PCR genetic testing will be required to determine sex at birth.
- Tests detect the SRY gene (indicating the presence of a Y chromosome).
- Testing methods: nasal/mouth swab, saliva, or blood.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Female category: No Y chromosome or no male androgenization in DSD cases.
- Male category: Presence of Y chromosome or male androgenization in DSD cases.
- Applies to all athletes over 18 in World Boxing events.
Enforcement & Certification:
- National Federations must certify athlete sex using PCR results when registering for competitions.
- Athletes without valid certification will be ineligible to compete.
- False or missing certification may result in sanctions for athletes and/or federations.
- World Boxing can re-test samples to verify certification.
- Includes a clinical review process and appeals system for complex cases.
Case: Imane Khelif
- Banned from competing in female events until she undergoes sex testing.
- Decision made citing safety, wellbeing, and public reaction concerns.
- Letter issued to Algerian Boxing Federation on 30 May 2025.
Support & Ethics:
- World Boxing stresses respect and dignity for all athletes.
- Psychological and medical support will be available to affected athletes.
- Maintains binary male/female competition categories only.
