Transgender participation suspended by British Cycling pending review

British Cycling has suspended its policy of allowing transgender athletes to compete in elite women’s events while it reviews its rules — which are not in step with the sport’s world governing body. Emily Bridges believed she would be able to compete in her first top level women’s race last weekend, until the UCI ruled she was not eligible.

The 21-year-old began hormone therapy last year. Ad/> The situation has prompted a wider discussion on trans participation in sport, with the Prime Minister expressing his views this week, as have politicians from all parties.

/> Itzulia Basque CountryHighlights of Itzulia Basque Country Stage 4 as Dani Martinez sprints to victory14 HOURS AGO British Cycling says it is clear their policy needs to be looked at again and that before rushing to any judgement, the governing body will speak to parties from all sides to form new regulations. “While the current policy was created following an extensive external and internal consultation, the review will allow us time for further discussion with all stakeholders, including women and the transgender and non-binary communities, as we strive to provide all within our sport with the clarity and understanding they deserve,” British Cycling said in a statement.

“As an organisation we remain committed to ensuring that transgender and non-binary people are welcomed, supported and celebrated in the cycling community, and the inclusion of these groups within non-competitive activities remains unaffected by the suspension. We will also continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our sport remains free of hate, discrimination and abuse in all forms, and that we prioritise the welfare of riders, volunteers, event organisers, commissaires and others that