Official announcements from the International Olympic Committee (IOC)

Controversy Erupts Over Two Male Boxers Competing in Women's Olympic Boxing in Paris

Jul 30, 2024, 01:00 PM

Imane Khelif, a boxer previously banned from the Women's World Boxing Championships in 2023 for being a man, is now allowed to compete in women's Olympic boxing in Paris. This decision has sparked significant controversy and backlash, with critics arguing that allowing male-bodied individuals to compete against women in a combat sport poses serious safety risks. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has faced intense criticism for its stance, with calls for intervention to prevent potential harm to female athletes. The matches involving Khelif and another male boxer competing in the women's category are scheduled for Thursday and Friday. Critics have also highlighted concerns about transgenderism and its implications for fairness in sports.