U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) has called on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to implement a definitive ban on biological males competing in women’s categories at the Olympic Games. In a letter addressed to Kirsty Coventry, the newly elected IOC President, Cornyn urged swift action to finalize and enforce such a policy before upcoming major events.
“Reports indicate the working group is moving towards a complete ban on biological males competing in female events, but that decision is not yet confirmed. I urge the IOC to move swiftly toward a clear and decisive policy that protects fair and safe competition for women and prohibits biological males from competing in female categories,” wrote Sen. Cornyn.
Cornyn referenced ongoing preparations for both the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles as reasons for timely decision-making. He also cited recent actions by various sports organizations worldwide regarding eligibility policies in women’s sports.
“With the Winter Games rapidly approaching in February and preparation well underway for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, timely action is essential. As the IOC continues its deliberations, this issue has become a global policy concern and a question of athletic integrity. In the United States, President Trump honored his unwavering commitment to women and girls with the issuance of Executive Order 14201: Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports. His action reaffirmed the longstanding belief that women’s sports must be preserved for biological females,” he continued.
“I applaud your commitment to addressing this issue and respectfully urge the International Olympic Committee to finalize the ban on biological males competing in female sports, without delay,” he concluded.
Cornyn congratulated Coventry on her historic election as both the first woman and first African president of the IOC, noting her experience as an Olympic medalist and her early focus on eligibility policies for women’s competitions.
He highlighted scientific findings suggesting physiological advantages held by biological males even after hormone therapy. The senator also pointed out that similar policies have been adopted or considered by other sporting bodies such as NCAA, U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, World Boxing Organization, and England’s Football Association.
John Cornyn has served multiple terms as U.S. Senator from Texas after winning general elections against MJ Hegar (2020), David Alameel (2014), Rick Noriega (2008), and Ron Kirk (2002).
The full text of Senator Cornyn’s letter can be accessed online.
