IOC Adopts SRY Gene Policy for 2028 Womens Events

The International Olympic Committee announced a new eligibility policy last month that restricts women's Olympic events to biological females, prompting sharp criticism from retired U.S. soccer star Megan Rapinoe, who described the measure as hateful and unscientific during a recent podcast appearance.

The policy, set to take effect for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, requires a one-time screening for the SRY gene, which triggers male development, typically via a simple cheek swab. It includes narrow exceptions for rare conditions such as complete androgen insensitivity syndrome. IOC officials stated that the change is grounded in scientific evidence of inherent male physical advantages, estimated at 10 to 12 percent in events like running and swimming, and up to 20 percent or more in strength-based sports. They emphasized that testosterone suppression does not fully mitigate these differences, aiming to preserve fairness and safety in women's competitions.

Rapinoe, a two-time World Cup winner and Olympic gold medalist, voiced her objections on the April 3 episode of her podcast "A Touch More," co-hosted with retired basketball star Sue Bird. Recorded on Trans Day of Visibility,...