Boxing
IBA set to sue IOC; Imane Khelif vows to fight baseless accusations
IBA is set to sue the International Olympic Committee (IOC) over the Alegrian's inclusion at the Paris Olympics.
Imane Khelif (in red) said the IBA has 'made baseless accusations that are false and offensive, using them to further their agenda,' (File photo)
Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, who won gold in the 66kg category at Paris 2024, is at the center of a legal feud after the International Boxing Association (IBA) challenged her eligibility.
The IBA, previously banned from organizing Olympic boxing, claims Khelif is a transgender and should not have competed in the women’s category.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) strongly defends Khelif, stating she was born female, is officially registered as a woman, and followed all competition rules.
The controversy resurfaced after the IBA revealed it had barred Khelif from the 2023 World Championships due to “chromosomal anomalies.”
The IBA has stated that it will now take legal action in Switzerland and is preparing lawsuits in France and the U.S., citing support from a recent U.S. law restricting trans athletes in women’s sports.
The boxer has taken to social media voicing her displeasure in the actions of the IBA.
In a post, she stated "I have earned my place, and I will continue to stand firm in the face of any challenge."
Saying that 'silence is no longer an option,' Khelif further went on to add, "The International Boxing Association (IBA), an organization I am no longer associated with, and an organization which is no longer recognized by the International Olympic Committee, have again made baseless accusations that are false and offensive."
Supporters argue Khelif is being unfairly targeted, while the IOC insists she rightfully earned her Olympic gold.
