World Boxing’s global governing body has stated that it should not have named Algeria boxer Imane Khelif in its public statement on gender testing, and argued it was not appropriate nor warranted.
The governing body, which is now taking a more formal and transitionary role in international boxing, had to make a statement of clarification as a result of a disastrous backlash from athletes, officials and human rights organizations – many of whom suggested, or at the least implied, this was an inappropriate, and potentially illegal, acceptance of an earlier private, confidential contract and procedural protocols.
Khelif, either a prominent competitor or standard bearer in amateur boxing, was named in an previous correspondence from World Boxing generally on eligibility criteria for women’s events. World Boxing name Khelif as a basic comparison as part of the previous, now baseless, release to issue its new gender eligibility measures.
In its latest clarification, World Boxing said, “It was not correct to identify Imane Khelif by name in our public statement. The example should have been anonymized. We acknowledge the error and regret any distress caused.”
Background of the Controversy
The controversy stems from recent debates in international sports regarding transgender athletes and eligibility policies in female categories. While Khelif’s name was included in a broader explanation of policy enforcement, there was no official ruling or accusation made against her personally.
Khelif, 25, has represented Algeria on numerous international stages and was among the top competitors in her weight class. In 2023, she was unexpectedly pulled from a major final bout just hours before the match, sparking speculation at the time. The reasons were not publicly detailed, though reports hinted at “administrative issues” involving eligibility.
World Boxing’s earlier mention of her name in the gender policy document appeared to connect her to sensitive eligibility matters, without due context or explanation. This fueled public backlash, especially in her home country, where officials and fans have rallied in her defense.
Athlete Privacy and Public Responsibility
The incident has raised concerns about how sports bodies handle athlete privacy, particularly when dealing with topics as personal and complex as gender verification. Human rights advocates argue that athletes should never be used as examples in policy explanations without consent or necessity.
In response, World Boxing stated that it is reviewing its communications protocol and will introduce clearer privacy protections going forward.
Imane Khelif has not yet made a public statement regarding the issue, but sources close to her team say she is considering legal advice and may seek an official apology.
