World cycling’s governing body bans trans athletes from competing in female categories
World cycling’s governing body has banned trans athletes from competing in the female categories. On 14 July, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) announced the shocking news in a statement. “From now on, female transgender athletes who have transitioned after (male) puberty will be prohibited from participating in women’s events on the UCI international calendar – in all categories – in all the various disciplines,” the governing body said. “Given the current state of scientific knowledge, it is also impossible to rule out the possibility that biomechanical factors such as the shape and arrangement of the bones in their limbs may constitute a lasting advantage for female transgender athletes.” Before implementing their restrictions, trans women could compete in the female categories if they were within the permitted plasma testosterone level of 2.5 nanomoles per litre.
In an additional statement, UCI president David Lappartient insisted that cycling is still “open to everyone” before doubling down on the restrictive policy adjustment. “First of all, the UCI would like to reaffirm that cycling – as a competitive sport, leisure activity or means of transport – is open to everyone, including transgender people, whom we encourage like everyone else to take part in our sport,” he said. “I would also like to reaffirm that the UCI fully respects and supports the right of individuals to choose the sex that corresponds to their gender identity, whatever they were assigned at birth. “However, it has a duty to guarantee, above all, equal opportunities for all competitors in cycling competitions.” Under the new restrictions, trans women who transitioned after puberty will only be allowed to participate in the men’s category,
