Boxing’s new global governing body is introducing sex testing from July – but has already informed Imane Khelif she won’t be eligible to compete as a female fighter at an event in the Netherlands next week.
The Algerian’s disputed failed gender eligibility test – conducted by a different controversial boxing body – was a major issue at the Paris Olympics before she won gold.
World Boxing said its new policy “reflects concerns over the safety and wellbeing of all boxers, including Imane Khelif, and aims to protect the mental and physical health of all participants.”
This, it says, is “in light of some of the reactions that have been expressed in relation to the boxer’s potential participation at the Eindhoven Box Cup.”
The governing body wrote to the Algerian Boxing Federation today to say: “Imane Khelif may not participate in the female category at the Eindhoven Box Cup, 5-10 June 2025, and any World Boxing event until Imane Khelif undergoes genetic sex screening in accordance with World Boxing’s rules and testing procedures.
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“In accordance with the World Boxing Statutes, amendments to the Competition Rules are typically made by Congress.
“However, under special or emergency circumstances, the World Boxing Executive Board holds the authority to make immediate amendments when a rule is deemed no longer functional or when evolving conditions necessitate a change.
“In May 2025, the Executive Board exercised this authority and adopted new eligibility criteria for participation in sex-specific boxing categories.”
Algeria’s Imane Khelif (left) celebrates victory over China’s Liu Yang at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Pic: PA.
It added: “These new eligibility rules were developed with the express purpose of safeguarding athletes in combat sports, particularly given the physical risks associated with Olympic-style boxing.”
The move towards mandatory testing forms part of a new policy on “Sex, Age and Weight”, the boxing chiefs said.
It aims to “deliver a competitive level playing field for men and women.”
The policy – which is currently in its final stages of development – was created by “examining data and medical evidence” from a variety of sources, including global experts.
It will come into force on 1 July this year – and will include an appeals process.
This story originally appeared on Skynews
