Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, who won gold in the women’s 66kg category at the Paris 2024 Olympics, faces new gender verification requirements under a policy being introduced by World Boxing in June 2025. The rule mandates that female athletes undergo testing to confirm the absence of the Y chromosome to compete in women’s boxing.
World Boxing, the organization recognized by the IOC after it withdrew recognition from the International Boxing Association, says the measure aims to ensure fair and safe competition. However, the policy has sparked debate over its scientific basis, legal implications, and questions of inclusion.
Khelif’s gender eligibility came under scrutiny in 2023 when the IBA barred her from the final of the Women’s World Boxing Championships, citing gender verification concerns. The IBA publicly stated that tests conducted in 2022 and 2023 indicated Khelif has XY chromosomes. However, it did not release detailed information about the testing methods or full results, leading to criticism over the lack of transparency and due process.
Imane Khelif, the Paris Olympics Gold medal winner in the Women’s 66kg Boxing competition
The question over Khelif’s Olympic gold medal remains unresolved
The International Olympic Committee condemned the IBA’s actions as “sudden and arbitrary” and permitted Khelif to compete at the Paris Olympics. The IOC confirmed that Khelif met all eligibility requirements at the time, including being legally recognized as female. Her Olympic gold medal stands, and the new World Boxing policy will not apply retroactively.
During the Games, speculation about Khelif’s gender intensified following her Italian opponent’s early withdrawal from their bout. This triggered a wave of misinformation and public figures spreading unverified claims. Khelif responded by filing a criminal complaint in France for cyber harassment.
The Algerian Boxing Federation has supported Khelif’s status as a female athlete but has not publicly addressed the upcoming testing requirements. It remains unclear whether Khelif will comply with the new policy or seek an exemption or legal challenge.
Khelif has not made a public statement on the new regulations. Khelif’s situation underscores the ongoing complexities and controversies around gender verification in sport, as governing bodies try to balance fairness, safety, and inclusion.
As World Boxing prepares to implement these rules, Khelif’s case is likely to be a key test of how gender policies are enforced and challenged in combat sports.
