Imane Khelif Appeals World Boxing Sex-Test Rule to CAS

Algerian Olympic boxing gold medalist Imane Khelif is legally challenging World Boxing's mandatory genetic sex testing policy, which bars her from competing in upcoming events without undergoing the test. Khelif appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) seeking eligibility for the 2025 World Boxing Championships without the test, but CAS dismissed her request to suspend the policy pending a full hearing. The policy, introduced by World Boxing in May, requires athletes to prove they are biologically female through genetic screening to ensure a level playing field and safety, a move that has sparked controversy given Khelif and fellow Olympic champion Lin Yu-ting both competed previously without such tests. World Boxing initially singled out Khelif for the test but later apologized, and the new rules apply to all female competitors. Khelif remains committed to her boxing career, training for future events including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, while the IOC’s new president has established a task force to address gender eligibility issues in sport. The case highlights ongoing tensions in elite sports governance over sex and gender eligibility standards amid efforts to balance fairness and inclusion.