The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is reportedly moving toward implementing a policy that could bar transgender women from competing in the female category before the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. Multiple sources suggest the policy may be introduced within six to 12 months, driven by new IOC president Kirsty Coventry’s pledge to “protect the female category.” The move would also avoid potential conflict with U.S. President Donald Trump, who earlier signed an executive order restricting transgender women from competing in female sports.
However, internal debate continues, especially concerning athletes with differences of sexual development (DSD), who were assigned female at birth but have male chromosomes or testosterone levels. Some sports bodies, including World Athletics, have already excluded such athletes, while FIFA still allows them in women’s competitions. A recent scientific review presented to IOC members highlighted evidence of physical advantages linked to male puberty. Despite growing speculation, the IOC insists no final decision has been made, and the working group is still deliberating, with 2026 seen as a realistic timeline.