Boxing Body Backpedals After Sex Test Policy Fiasco!

World Boxing Apologizes for Naming Imane Khelif in Sex Test Policy Announcement

World Boxing, the sport's governing body, has issued an apology after inadvertently singling out Olympic champion Imane Khelif in its announcement regarding mandatory sex testing. The incident has sparked controversy and raised questions about the organization's handling of sensitive athlete information.

The Algerian boxer, Imane Khelif, who secured a gold medal at the Paris Games last summer, found herself at the center of attention when World Boxing released its new policy last Friday. The announcement specifically mentioned Khelif, a move that the organization now acknowledges was a mistake.

World Boxing President Boris van der Vorst contacted the Algerian Boxing Federation on Monday to express his remorse. In a letter obtained by The Associated Press, Van der Vorst stated:

“I am writing to you all personally to offer a formal and sincere apology for this and acknowledge that her privacy should have been protected.”

He further added that he hoped this personal outreach would demonstrate "our true respect to you and your athletes."

Background of the Controversy

Khelif and Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting previously faced scrutiny at the Paris Games after the former governing body, the International Boxing Association (IBA), disqualified them from the 2023 world championships. The IBA cited unspecified eligibility test failures as the reason. However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) intervened, applying sex eligibility rules from previous Olympics and clearing both athletes to compete.

New Policy and its Implications

World Boxing, provisionally approved to organize boxing at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, has been under pressure to establish clear sex eligibility standards. The organization's new policy, set to take effect on July 1, mandates testing for all boxers to "ensure the safety of all participants and deliver a competitive level playing field for men and women."

The policy includes the following key elements:

• Mandatory polymerase chain reaction (PCR) genetic testing for all athletes over 18.
• PCR tests to detect chromosomal material through a mouth swab, saliva, or blood.
• Athletes intending to compete in women’s categories found to have male chromosomal material will undergo further evaluations by independent clinical specialists, including:
  • Genetic screening
  • Hormonal profiles
  • Anatomical examination
  • Evaluation of endocrine profiles
• An appeals process for athletes who dispute the findings.

Concerns and Future Outlook

While Khelif intends to defend her gold medal at the LA Games, some boxers and federations have voiced concerns about her inclusion. She had planned to return to international competition this month at the Eindhoven Box Cup in the Netherlands. The situation underscores the complexities and sensitivities surrounding sex eligibility in sports.

World Boxing's apology represents a step towards addressing the harm caused by the initial announcement. As the organization moves forward with its new policy, it must prioritize athlete privacy and ensure fair and transparent procedures. The focus should remain on creating a safe and inclusive environment for all competitors, while upholding the integrity of the sport.

Source: James Robson, AP News.

AP boxing: https://apnews.com/boxing

Tags: World Boxing, Imane Khelif, Sex testing, Boxing apology, Algerian boxer, Paris Games, Boris van Vorst, Olympic champion, Lin Yu-ting, Boxing Federation, Eligibility testing, International Boxing Association, IOC, Los Angeles Games 2028.

Source: https://apnews.com/article/imane-khelif-sex-test-boxing-209aa0a06d00da31940d0050df56fab9