Call for Stripping Olympic Gold Medal from Algerian Boxer

The President of the International Boxing Association (IBA), Umar Klemrev, has stated that Iman Kerif’s Olympic gold medal should be revoked to promote “transparency and openness.” Kerif secured the gold medal in women’s boxing at the 2024 Paris Games, although the IBA has faced scrutiny regarding its governance and financial ties to Russia’s Gazprom.

Previously, Khelif was disqualified from the IBA for not meeting gender eligibility tests, with Kremlev alleging that unpublished DNA results indicated Khelif had an Xy chromosome.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has defended the outcome of the Paris Games, asserting that Kerif, along with another boxer embroiled in eligibility debates, experienced an “arbitrary decision by the IBA.” Kerif has publicly denied being transgender.

In February, the IOC tentatively recognized World Boxing as a governing body, which entails a new Gender Eligibility Policy requiring athletes to undergo forced sexual testing. This change comes as the U.S. prepares to host the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Klemrev suggested in a recent interview that Kerif might be barred from participating in international competitions, reinforcing his call for the medal’s cancellation.

Meanwhile, Khelif missed competing in a recent international boxing tournament in the Netherlands due to late registration. Klemrev’s remarks align with a recent statement from IOC president Kirsty Coventry, who highlighted a need for enhanced protections for women in sports.

Coventry emphasized, “We understand that sports vary, but it is crucial to protect women’s categories to ensure fairness.” She noted the importance of a scientific approach, alongside the League of Nations, to address relevant issues within the sporting sphere.