Senator John Cornyn Urges IOC to Finalize Ban on Biological Males in Women’s Sports

WASHINGTON — Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, has called on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to promptly finalize a policy banning biological males from competing in women’s sports. In a letter addressed to IOC President Kirsty Coventry on Monday, Cornyn emphasized the importance of establishing a clear and decisive policy to ensure fair and safe competition for female athletes.

According to multiple reports, the IOC is preparing to enact a new policy that would prohibit transgender female athletes, including those with differences of sex development (DSD), from participating in women’s events. The policy is expected to be announced in February, just ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics.

“Reports indicate the working group is moving towards a complete ban on biological males competing in female events, but that decision is not yet confirmed,” Cornyn wrote. He stressed the urgency of the matter given the proximity of the Winter Games and the ongoing preparations for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

“With the Winter Games rapidly approaching in February and preparation well underway for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, timely action is essential,” Cornyn added. He described the issue as a global policy concern and a question of athletic integrity.

Cornyn also referenced a U.S. executive order issued by former President Donald Trump, which aimed to preserve women’s sports for biological females. He expressed support for the IOC’s efforts to address the matter and urged the committee to finalize the ban without delay.

Kirsty Coventry, who was elected IOC president earlier this year, has previously called for protecting the women’s category in sports. The forthcoming policy is anticipated to clarify the IOC’s stance on transgender athlete participation in women’s events.

The debate over transgender athletes in women’s sports continues to be a contentious issue internationally, with various sports organizations reviewing their policies to balance inclusivity and fairness. The IOC’s decision is expected to influence global sports governance as the Olympic community prepares for upcoming competitions.