FINA Takes a Huge Step Against Transgender Swimmers Amidst Lia Thomas Controversy Pressure

With each passing day, there are new updates coming to light in the Lia Thomas controversy. It’s the same issue that shook the entire world in March this year. However, this time it’s the International Swimming Federation (FINA) that took a historic decision regarding the transgender athletes’ future. The decision came amidst the ongoing world swimming championships in Budapest.

Lia Thomas became the center of attention when she won the 500 yards freestyle race at the NCAA championship. At the time, the entire world was part of the debate that whether she is eligible to compete in the women’s division or not. However, this is the first time FINA has taken an important decision on the matter.

FINA stops transgender swimmers to compete in the women’s division

According to FINA’s new policy, transgenders who have gone through their transition before the age of 12 will only be allowed to compete in the women’s category. Furthermore, the organization will have an ‘open’ category for swimmers whose gender identity is different from their birth sex. As per Brent Nowicki, the executive director of FINA, “Fina’s approach in drafting this policy was comprehensive, science-based and inclusive, and, importantly, Fina’s approach emphasised competitive fairness.”

The world was eagerly awaiting a decision from the governing bodies of the sport since the controversy began. However, now that it’s finally here, it would be interesting to know how everyone reacts to it.

READ MORE- WATCH: Lia Thomas Stands Tall Amidst Boos as Rivals Protest On Podium

A huge setback for Lia Thomas

The decision surely came as a huge setback for Lia Thomas. In her interviews, she has said time and again that the only thing she wants to do is swim. Earlier she also talked about representing the USA in the Olympics someday. However, now the decision by FINA has brought some serious complications for her to continue with the sport she is so passionate about.

What are your thoughts about FINA’s decision regarding the trans swimmers?

DIVE DEEPER- WATCH: Lia Thomas Stands Tall Amidst Boos as Rivals Protest On Podium