The Hungarian Boxing Association is protesting Imane Khelif’s participation in the women’s boxing event at the Paris Olympics. The association plans to send letters to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Hungary’s Olympic committee, citing concerns about Khelif’s eligibility. Khelif was previously disqualified from the 2023 World Championships for failing unspecified gender eligibility tests.
Anna Luca Hamori, Hungary’s first female Olympic boxer, is set to face Khelif in the quarterfinals despite the controversy. Hamori, who earned her spot by defeating Marissa Williamson Pohlman of Australia, expressed no fear regarding her upcoming match.
The issue gained further attention when Italy’s Angela Carini withdrew from her bout against Khelif after just 46 seconds. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, present in Paris, met with Carini and later discussed the matter with IOC President Thomas Bach. They agreed to stay in contact to address the issue moving forward.
Lajos Berkó, a member of the Hungarian Boxing Association’s executive board, emphasized the association’s stance against Khelif’s participation, calling it unacceptable and outrageous. The association plans to request that the IOC reconsider its decision to allow Khelif to compete.
This situation highlights ongoing debates about gender eligibility in sports, with the Hungarian and Italian responses reflecting broader concerns about fairness and competition integrity.
