The International Olympic Committee published today the “IOC Policy on the Protection of the Female (Women’s) Category in Olympic Sport and Guiding Considerations for International Federations and Sports Governing Bodies.”
Among its many elements, the new IOC policy specifically states:
This Policy applies to all IOC Events and enters into force at the date of its adoption by the IOC Executive Board. It is not retroactive and shall be applicable for the first time at the LA28 Olympic Games. This Policy shall be adopted by IFs and other sports governing bodies, such as National Olympic Committees (“NOCs”), National Federations and Continental Associations (“SGBs”), when exercising their responsibility in implementing eligibility rules in relation to IOC Events.
Accordingly, the IOC policy language suggests that adoption of this new policy by WFDF would only be required if Flying Disc sports were participating in an IOC event.
We note that WFDF had introduced a transgender policy in late 2016 and that our current WFDF Transgender Athlete and Differences in Sex Development (DSD) Athlete Policy Amended Policy has been in effect since January 1, 2023. Throughout, we have recognized that this is a complex and sensitive topic for many people across our sport, and one that affects athletes in very personal ways.
Based on the above, the current WFDF policy remains in effect and will be the operative policy for WFDF events with no changes. The WFDF staff and board will be reviewing the full IOC policy, including its scientific, legal and operational implications, along with our Medical Commission and legal advisors, in due course.
For more information, contact:
Robert “Nob” Rauch
President
World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF)
email: [email protected]