OPEN LETTER TO WORLD BOXING
- Ro Edge
- Jun 4
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 4
Subject: Support and Gratitude for World Boxing’s Commitment to Fairness
Dear President van der Vorst,
The International Consortium on Female Sport (ICFS) writes to express our profound appreciation for World Boxing’s bold decision to introduce mandatory sex testing for athlete eligibility in its competitions. This policy is a critical step in protecting female boxers, preserving the integrity of the sport, and ensuring a level playing field for women worldwide.
The recent Olympic controversy involving Imane Khelif, whose male status was indicated by a leaked (unconfirmed) medical report and recently verified by a valid lab report, highlights the dire consequences of inadequate eligibility standards. Allowing male participation in female boxing was neither ethical nor justifiable, and it has undermined the trust of athletes and fans alike. Your decision to implement sex testing decisively addresses this scandal, reinforcing World Boxing’s commitment to fairness and the protection of women from male violence in sport—a concern that resonates far beyond the ring, as described by the UN Special Rapporteur, Reem Alsalem, in her 2024 report on Violence Against Women and Girls in Sports.
The global community is watching. Your leadership in restoring credibility to boxing is both commendable and essential. We encourage you to continue championing these standards, which not only safeguard female athletes but also uphold the values of integrity and fairness that define the sport.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment to doing what is right for women’s sport and for leading the way forward.
Yours in the service of safety and fairness to female athletes,
Linda Blade, on behalf of the Founding Members, ICFS
Email: hello@ICFSport.org
Open Letter Supporting World Boxing's Commitment to Fairness\
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