On Sunday, FINA, the international governing body for swimming, made a decision to limit the participation of transgender athletes in elite women’s competitions. As part of this new policy, a working group will be established to create an “open” category for transgender athletes in certain events.
Transgender rights in sports have been a significant topic, especially with the success of athletes like Lia Thomas in women’s sports.
Under the new policy, transgender women can only compete in women’s races if they have completed their transition by the age of 12.
Lia Thomas, a swimmer at Penn, has aspirations to qualify for the Olympics. However, the recent ruling by FINA would prevent her from participating. The policy was approved with a majority of approximately 71% after being voted on by the delegates of 152 national federations during the congress held at the Puskas Arena.
“We must safeguard our athletes’ right to compete while also ensuring fairness in competition, especially in the women’s category at FINA events,” stated FINA President Husain Al-Musallam.
“FINA is committed to welcoming all athletes. By introducing an open category, we aim to allow every athlete the opportunity to compete at the highest level. This is a first for us, and FINA intends to set an example. I encourage all athletes to actively participate in shaping this process.”
Additionally, the updated FINA policy now includes eligibility for individuals with “complete androgen insensitivity who did not undergo male puberty.”
Lia Thomas made history as the first transgender NCAA champion in Division I when she won the women’s 500-yard freestyle in March. Thomas previously competed on the men’s team at Penn before transitioning and competing as a woman for the first time during the 2021-22 season.
The original article source is Total Pro Sports.
