France’s sports minister has strongly condemned the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) decision to introduce genetic testing for women’s events, labelling it a “step backwards” and warning of significant ethical, legal, and scientific ramifications.

Marina Ferrari stated that while France “takes note” of the requirement for athletes to undergo testing based on the SRY gene, it fundamentally opposes any widespread use of genetic screening.

“On behalf of the French government, I wish to express our deep concern regarding this decision,” she said. “We oppose a generalisation of genetic testing that raises numerous ethical, legal and medical questions, particularly in light of French bioethics legislation.”

The IOC announced on Thursday that only biological female athletes would be eligible for women’s events from the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics onwards. This policy, which involves a one-time gene test to identify male sex development, effectively bars transgender athletes from competing in the female category.

Ms Ferrari highlighted that similar tests, first introduced in 1967, were discontinued in 1999 due to “strong reservations within the scientific community regarding their relevance.” She added: “France regrets this step backwards.”

The minister further argued that the policy risks undermining equality by specifically targeting women.

“This decision raises major concerns, as it specifically targets women by introducing a distinction that undermines the principle of equality,” she stated.

Ms Ferrari also cautioned that the approach fails to acknowledge biological diversity, particularly among intersex individuals.

“It defines the female sex without taking into account the biological specificities of intersex individuals, whose sexual characteristics present natural variations, leading to a reductive and potentially stigmatizing approach,” she explained.

France remains dedicated to ensuring fairness in competition while simultaneously protecting athletes’ privacy and well-being. Ms Ferrari pledged that “every athlete can compete in a respectful, protective environment consistent with the values of French sport.”

To address these concerns, France plans to establish a national observatory, bringing together sports bodies, scientists, legal experts, and athlete representatives. This body will develop recommendations aimed at ensuring sport is “fair, inclusive and respectful of human rights.”