The International Olympic Committee announced on Thursday that male sex confers performance advantage in sports relying on strength, power or endurance. The governing body stated eligibility for competition must base on biological sex to protect fairness and safety, especially in contact sports.

Athletes face a one-off screening for the SRY gene, detectable via saliva test, cheek swab or blood sample. The gene resides almost always on the Y chromosome and initiates male sex development.

DUP South Down MLA Diane Forsythe welcomed the decision. She stated men and women differ biologically and fairness requires central rules in elite competition like the Olympics.

Forsythe noted female athletes train and sacrifice to reach top levels. She said they merit equal competition without undermined opportunities and women's sport demands protection.

She pursues a Private Members' Bill with public consultation to bolster fairness, safety and equality for women and girls in Northern Ireland sport. Forsythe indicated the IOC move supports that effort and called for public backing.

The policy follows an IOC review after two athletes competed in female boxing categories at the 2024 Games.