Question 1

Who decides whether an athlete is eligible to compete in a category?

Accepted Answer

The governing body of the sport, or a panel it appoints, under its own current rules. The doctor explains those rules accurately, gives honest information and supports the athlete, but does not make or enforce the decision.

Question 2

What is the International Olympic Committee's current policy on the female category?

Accepted Answer

Under its policy approved on 26th March 2026, from the Los Angeles 2028 Games the female category at the Olympic Games and other IOC events is limited to biological females, determined by a single SRY gene screen, with a rare exception for some differences of sex development. It is not retroactive, does not apply to grassroots or recreational sport, and individual federations set their own rules for their own events.

Question 3

What must an athlete understand before an eligibility assessment?

Accepted Answer

Before giving written consent, the athlete should understand the doctor's role, the scope and purpose of the assessment, its possible consequences, who will receive the report and what will be disclosed. Confidentiality still applies, but its limits differ from ordinary treatment.

Question 4

Are differences of sex development the same as being transgender?

Accepted Answer

No. Differences of sex development are congenital conditions in which chromosomal, gonadal or anatomical sex development differs from the typical pattern. They are medically and legally distinct from transgender status, although they are often conflated.

Eligibility and Fairness

Overview

Keep reading for free

Frequently asked questions

Related Topics