US Olympic policy change bans Transgender women from competing in women’s events

Transgender women will no longer be allowed to compete in women’s events at the Olympics and Paralympics under a new policy announced by the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC).

The rule, which takes effect on July 21, 2025, has been added to the USOPC’s Athlete Safety Policy under a new section called “Additional Requirements.” It aligns with an executive order from President Donald Trump titled “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports.”

According to the USOPC, the updated policy is meant to “ensure that women have a fair and safe competition environment,” in line with Executive Order 14201 and the Ted Stevens Olympic & Amateur Sports Act.

In a memo sent to Team USA athletes, USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland and President Gene Sykes said the committee has a duty to follow federal mandates. The memo referenced Trump’s order, which calls for strict enforcement of single-sex sports and locker rooms, warning that institutions could lose federal funding if they allow transgender girls or women to compete in female categories.

“All National Governing Bodies are required to update their applicable policies in alignment,” the USOPC said in a statement, emphasizing the policy’s focus on fairness in women’s competition.

This move reflects a wider shift in U.S. sports. The NCAA has also updated its rules, now restricting participation in women’s sports to athletes assigned female at birth.

The USOPC added that it has been working with federal officials through what it called “respectful and constructive conversations.” The policy change also comes as Los Angeles gets ready to host the 2028 Summer Olympics.