Days After Former Pro-Cyclist’s Controversial Remarks on Trans Athletes, World Cycling Body Responds

Former pro-cyclist Lance Armstrong’s statements about the inclusion of trans athletes in competitive cycling with a new category sparked controversy. In the wake of his remarks, the world of cycling finds itself embroiled in a heated debate surrounding the subject. Armstrong’s views on transgender athletes in sports, and in particular cycling, may have also influenced the latest change in cycling regulations.

In a move that follows similar decisions by track and field and swimming, the International Cycling Union (UCI) has banned transgender athletes who transitioned after male puberty from competing in women’s races. Nonetheless, the new rule has been included in the cycling regulation logs, days after Lance Armstrong’s controversial remarks on an episode of Stars on Mars.

Lance Armstrong’s Remarks and UCI’s New Regulations

During a recent episode of Stars On Mars, Armstrong suggested trans athletes should compete in their own category. According to a Daily Mail report, the multiple ESPY Awards winner expressed support for individuals going through transitions and proposed the idea of creating a separate category for them. He added, “We’re going to have a whole new division. We’ll celebrate you just like we celebrate everybody else. Let’s go. What’s unfair about that?”

However, the International Cycling Union (UCI), the governing body responsible for overseeing the sport, chose a different path. According to a Sports Illustrated report, the UCI in its statement stated,  “From now on, female transgender athletes who have transitioned after (male) puberty will be prohibited from participating in women’s events on the UCI international calendar — in all categories — in the various disciplines,” 

UCI’s new regulations regarding transgender athletes come shortly after American cyclist Austin Killips made history in May. Earlier this year, she became the first openly transgender woman to win an official cycling event and also adhered to UCI’s previous policies.

According to previous rules, at least 24 months before the women’s competitions, trans athletes had to maintain serum testosterone levels of 2.5 nanomoles per liter or less. Despite sticking to rules, Killips faced criticism from some cycling fans and former racers after her win. The UCI justified its decision by citing the need to ensure equal opportunities for all athletes. Earlier this year, the governing bodies of track and field and swimming adopted similar regulations.

Similar bans on trans athletes in other sports

The sport of swimming and track and field has also banned trans athletes from competing in women’s competitions. Governing bodies for both sports maintain they are prioritizing fairness of female competition over inclusion. Back in March, The World Athletic Council decided that trans athletes who had earlier gone through male puberty will be disbarred from competing in women’s track and field competitions.

Read more: After FINA, World Athletics Also Hints at a Huge Change in Sport for Trans Athletes

Similarly, last year, the International Swimming Federation ruled that all trans swimmers who have undergone male puberty or transitioned after the age of 12 will be banned from competing in women’s events. Despite the controversies, the challenge remains in finding a balance between inclusivity and ensuring a level playing field. Ultimately striving for a future where all athletes can excel on their own terms.

Watch this story: Amidst the Ruckus Ground Transgender NCAA Swimmer Lia Thomas, Swimming GOAT Michael Phelps Terms the Issue as “Complicated”