Khelif abstains from participating in the world championships while appealing against the sex testing requirement

World Boxing Introduces Mandatory Sex Testing for Competitors

In a notable move, the World Boxing organisation has announced that all boxers aged 18 and over will be required to undergo a PCR gene test at their competitions, starting from late May. This decision, which has been met with some controversy, was confirmed by World Boxing president Boris van der Vorst.

The announcement came with an apology from van der Vorst, who had previously named Imane Khelif in their June announcement. It is important to note that Khelif is not competing at the World Boxing Championships, which are set to begin in Liverpool on Thursday.

Van der Vorst defended the decision, stating that the testing is crucial for ensuring safe and fair competitions. He emphasised that World Boxing established itself to save the Olympic dream and protect female boxing. The president considered the introduction of sex testing as an important step to achieve this goal.

However, Khelif has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport seeking to overturn World Boxing's ruling regarding PCR (polymerase chain reaction) genetic testing. She has the right to do so, according to the organisation's rules.

The Algerian Boxing Federation did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Meanwhile, Taiwan's Lin, who was expected to compete at the World Boxing Championships, will not be participating. Her absence from the entry list of her national federation was confirmed by World Boxing.

Van der Vorst noted that everyone is equal and that all women are required to submit several documents, including the sex testing. He stressed that World Boxing views its brand as ensuring safe and fair competitions.

The World Boxing Championships are not limited to amateur boxing but also include Olympic boxing. As van der Vorst stated, they are speaking not only about the current World Boxing Championships but future events as well.

In conclusion, the introduction of mandatory sex testing by World Boxing is a significant development in the world of boxing. While it has sparked debate, the organisation remains committed to its mission of ensuring safe and fair competitions for all competitors.

Khelif abstains from participating in the world championships while appealing against the sex testing requirement