Sebastian Coe, a former Olympic gold medalist, has unveiled his vision for the future of the International Olympics Committee (IOC) as he continues his campaign for the presidency.
His manifesto, released ahead of the 2025 election, emphasizes the need to safeguard female athletes, a topic that has sparked widespread controversy in 2024 due to the participation of transgender athletes in women's sports.
According to the Daily Caller, Coe's stance on this issue starkly contrasts with that of the current IOC president, Thomas Bach. In a recent interview with Sky News, Coe expressed his intention to consider a complete ban on transgender athletes if he assumes the presidency. "Weve been very clear in World Athletics that transgender athletes will not be competing in the female category at elite level," Coe stated.
Coe currently presides over World Athletics, the global governing body for track and field. Under his leadership in 2023, the organization tightened its regulations on transgender athletes, prohibiting trans women who have undergone male puberty from participating. The revised rules also lowered the maximum testosterone level required for eligibility.
In his interview with Sky News, Coe indicated that if elected as IOC president, he would implement a policy similar to World Athletics' restrictions. "I would have a very clear policy that will be unambiguous," he affirmed.
Coe's proposed changes could significantly alter the landscape of the Olympics, potentially restoring traditional values in sports and reinforcing the importance of fair competition. His commitment to protecting female athletes and maintaining the integrity of women's sports resonates with those who believe in preserving the original spirit of the Olympic Games.
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