August 02, (THEWILL) – The ongoing controversy surrounding the eligibility of certain female boxers at the 2024 Paris Olympics has sparked heated debate and raised serious questions about the fairness and integrity of the competition.
Two athletes in particular, Lin Yu-ting of Taiwan and Imane Khelif of Algeria, have found themselves at the centre of this controversy. Both were disqualified from the 2023 Women’s World Championships after failing gender eligibility tests, yet were cleared to compete in Paris.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has defended its decision, stating that the rules are based on those used at the Tokyo 2020 Games and cannot be changed during the competition. However, the International Boxing Association (IBA), which organised the World Championships, has condemned the “inconsistencies in eligibility” and questioned the IOC’s stance.
The issue came to a head during a welterweight bout on Thursday, when Khelif overwhelmed her Italian opponent Angela Carini, who withdrew after just 46 seconds, reportedly telling her coach “it’s not right”. Carini later said she had “to preserve my life” at that moment.
Broadcasters, including the BBC and Eurosport, faced criticism for their handling of the incident, with some accusing them of attempting to “dial down” scrutiny of Khelif’s participation. Neither network made any mention of the gender controversy during their live coverage.
The affair has divided opinion, with some, like former Olympian Sharron Davies, condemning the IOC for “knowingly putting males with a huge advantage in the ring with females”. Others, such as the IOC’s Chief Spokesman, Mark Adams, have warned against a “witch hunt” against the athletes involved.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
