Senator Cornyn Calls for IOC to Ban Biological Males in Women’s Sports

Senator John Cornyn of Texas has urged the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to implement a definitive policy prohibiting biological males from competing in women’s sports. This call comes as the IOC reportedly considers new regulations ahead of the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics and 2028 Summer Olympics.

Policy Development and Fairness in Athletics

In a letter sent to Kirsty Coventry, the IOC president, Cornyn emphasized the necessity of establishing a clear policy that protects the integrity of women’s athletics. He pointed out that the IOC is on the verge of finalizing a ban on transgender female athletes competing against biological women, including those with differences in sex development.

The senator expressed his concerns, stating, “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. I urge the IOC to move swiftly toward a clear and decisive policy that protects fair and safe competition for women.”

With the Winter Games set to commence in February 2026, Cornyn highlighted the urgency of the matter, noting that timely action is essential. “As the IOC continues its deliberations, this issue has become a global policy concern and a question of athletic integrity,” he added.

Historical Context and Support for the Ban

President Donald Trump previously reinforced the commitment to maintaining the separation of men’s and women’s sports through Executive Order 1420: Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports. This executive order reflects a broader belief in the necessity of preserving women’s sports for biological females.

Cornyn commended the IOC’s ongoing efforts, urging the organization to promptly finalize the ban without delay. He noted that the IOC had already indicated a strong inclination towards protecting the female category in sports. “We understand that there’ll be differences depending on the sport… but it was very clear from the members that we have to protect the female category, first and foremost to ensure fairness,” Coventry stated in June.

As discussions continue, the IOC is expected to announce its new policy in February, just prior to the Winter Olympics. This forthcoming decision is anticipated to reshape the landscape of women’s sports at both the national and international levels.

In conclusion, as the IOC prepares to finalize its stance on this contentious issue, the pressure from lawmakers and advocates for women’s sports is mounting. The outcome will likely have significant implications for the future of competition in women’s athletics.