World Boxing Apologizes to Algeria Over Mishandling of Imane Khelif Case

✍️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algerian Boxing Federation Slams Inaccurate Claims and Lack of Consultation, Demands Fairness and Respect for Athlete’s Rights

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Algiers, Algeria | June 4th, 2025 —  The Algerian Boxing Federation (FAB) has received a formal apology from World Boxing following its controversial decision to suspend Olympic boxer Imane Khelif from international competition over gender-related medical concerns—an action that provoked outrage and was condemned as both procedurally flawed and scientifically baseless by Algerian authorities.

In an official letter dated June 3, the FAB addressed a sharply worded response to the president of World Boxing, denouncing the organization’s “inaccurate and unfounded” allegations regarding the athlete’s eligibility, and included a comprehensive medical assessment verifying Khelif’s physical and psychological fitness to compete at the highest level.

FAB president Abdelkader Abba expressed deep surprise over the unilateral decision, criticizing the global body for failing to engage with Algerian medical and sports authorities before taking action. “Such a serious decision cannot be made without consultation and must fall within the exclusive purview of qualified national medical institutions,” the FAB stressed.

The medical report attached to the letter, compiled by independent Algerian experts in endocrinology, clinical biology, and sports medicine, reaffirmed that no medical anomalies were detected and that Khelif’s health profile aligns fully with international sporting norms.

FAB’s response was also circulated to the Minister of Youth and Sports, the President of the Algerian Olympic Committee, and the President of the National Anti-Doping Authority (CNADA), underlining the issue’s national significance.

World Boxing had named Imane Khelif in a mandatory gender verification test, triggering a suspension from international events. However, the backlash was swift. Just 48 hours later, on Monday, June 2, the international body made a dramatic U-turn.

In a public letter of apology, World Boxing President Boris Van Der Vorst personally extended his regrets:

“I write to you personally to offer my formal and sincere apologies. I acknowledge that Imane Khelif’s specific condition should have been protected.”

This reversal represents a significant moral victory for Algeria, which has steadfastly defended the rights and dignity of its athletes. The FAB reiterated its unwavering commitment to upholding ethical standards, the sovereignty of national medical institutions, and the protection of athletes from arbitrary decisions based on discriminatory or unscientific grounds.

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