World Boxing Introduces Mandatory Genetic Sex Testing for Athletes

World Boxing, the international governing body for the sport, has announced the immediate implementation of mandatory genetic sex testing for all athletes participating in its events. This policy, effective May 30, 2025, aims to ensure fairness in competition by verifying athletes' biological sex through PCR tests that detect the presence of the Y chromosome. Athletes identified as male at birth or those with differences in sexual development (DSD) exhibiting male androgenization will compete in the male category, while others will compete in the female category.

This decision follows controversies from the 2024 Paris Olympics, where boxers Imane Khelif of Algeria and Lin Yu-Ting of Taiwan faced scrutiny over their gender eligibility. Both athletes had previously been disqualified from the 2023 IBA Women's World Championships after failing gender eligibility tests administered by the International Boxing Association (IBA). However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) cleared both athletes to compete in the Paris Games.

During the Paris Olympics, Khelif's match against Italian boxer Angela Carini intensified the debate. Carini withdrew from the bout after 46 seconds, citing severe pain from Khelif's punches. This incident fueled discussions about gender eligibility and fairness in women's sports.

World Boxing, established in 2023 and comprising over 100 national federations, has received provisional recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The new eligibility rules were adopted under emergency provisions by the executive board, citing the need to protect athletes in a high-contact sport.

The introduction of mandatory genetic testing has sparked debate. Critics argue that such testing is neither justified, ethical, nor viable, raising concerns about consent, confidentiality, and the potential psychological impact on athletes.

This policy change reflects ongoing discussions within the sports community about fairness, inclusivity, and the methods used to determine eligibility in gender-specific categories.