Sport

World Athletics bans trans athletes from elite female track and field events, says decision in ‘best interest of sport’

  • 31. Mar 2023. 8:07
  • By The EU Times
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The world of track and field was shaken today as World Athletics announced a ban on trans athletes competing in elite female track and field events.

The decision, which was reached after a long and drawn-out dispute between the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) and the LGBT community, was said to be “in the best interest of the sport”.

The ban, which will come into effect on November 1, states that trans athletes will be barred from competing in any women's event if they have naturally higher levels of testosterone than other female athletes. It is believed that this ban is an attempt to ensure fairness in elite female track and field competition.

The ban has been met with mixed reactions from the track and field community, with some athletes in support of the decision while others have expressed their disappointment.

“I think it's important to recognize that everyone should be able to compete in sport, regardless of gender identity,” said Olympic gold medallist and world record holder Caster Semenya, who has been a vocal advocate for trans athletes in the past.

“However, I also understand that it is important to protect the integrity of women's sport and ensure that all athletes have equal opportunities to compete on a level playing field.”

The news of the ban has sparked a larger debate in the sporting world, as other sports organizations have yet to take a stance on the issue.

It is clear that there is still a long way to go before we can find a solution that is fair to all involved, but today's decision by World Athletics has certainly set a precedent that other sports organizations may follow in the future.