Transgender women are not permitted to compete in the female division at world competitions, according to World Athletics.
No transgender athlete who has experienced male puberty will be allowed to participate in female world ranking events starting on March 31, according to Lord Sebastian Coe, the president of the governing body.
A working committee will be formed to carry out additional analysis on the eligibility requirements for transgender people.
“We’re not saying no forever,” he declared.
Prior to participating in the female category, transgender women were required by World Athletics to lower their blood testosterone level to a maximum of 5 nmol/L and maintain it there consistently for a period of 12 months, according to rules made earlier.
The choice, according to Lord Sebastian Coe, was “guided by the overarching principle which is to protect the female category.” He mentioned the absence of transgender athletes presently in international competitions in the sport.
“We will be guided in this by the science around physical performance and male advantage which will inevitably develop over the coming years. As more evidence becomes available, we will review our position, but we believe the integrity of the female category in athletics is paramount,” he added.
The Council decided to form a working group to “further consider the issue of transgender inclusion” for a period of one year.
Up to three council members, two athletes from the Athletes’ Commission, a transgender athlete, three representatives from World Athletics’ member federations, and representatives from the organization’s health and science section will also be a part of the group, which will be led by an independent chair.
In addition to reviewing and commissioning research, it will consult directly with transgender athletes and make recommendations to the Council.
