A genetic test, or nothing. World Boxing will now impose gender tests for boxers wishing to participate in the competitions it governs. A decision which aims to " ensure the safety of all participants and to offer fair competition conditions for men and women ", justifies the federation. It directly quotes the name of Imane Khelif in its press release, explaining that The Paris 2024 Olympic champion will have to take this sex test to be able to box this week, in Eindhoven (June 5-10).
« This decision reflects concerns about the safety and well-being of all boxers, including Imane Khelif, and aims to protect the mental and physical health of all participants in light of some of the reactions that have been expressed in relation to the boxer's potential participation in the Eindhoven Box Cup. » According to the federation's new policy, all athletes over the age of 18 who wish to participate in a competition organized or sanctioned by World Boxing will have to undergo a PCR genetic test, carried out using a saliva or blood sample, to determine their sex at birth and their eligibility.
Athletes with Y chromosome genetic material or a difference of sex development (DSD) with male androgenization will be eligible to compete in the men's category. The presence of XX chromosomes, the absence of Y chromosome genetic material, or DSD without male androgenization will send others to the women's category. National federations will be responsible for testing and will have to provide certification of the chromosomal sex of their athletes, as determined by a PCR test.
