The IOC: caught between a rock and a hard place
JOHN WIGHT writes on the controversies at the Paris Olympics, Team GB's lacklustre run at the Games, and mulls over the differences between the amateur and professional formats

THE 2024 Paris Olympics have already succeeded in becoming one of the most controversial Games ever held.
First we were treated to an opening ceremony that reached new heights of provocation for many watching around the world, while when it comes to the women’s boxing event the participation of two intersex fighters has broken new ground. Though not necessarily in a good way.
The sight of Algeria’s fighter Imane Khelif — who was banned from competing as a woman at the women’s amateur world championships last year by the IBA, after failing to pass a gender test — dishing out a vicious beating to Mexican female fighter Brianda Tamara poses a searching and serious question.
More from this author

Following the untimely death of 28-year-old Irish boxer John Cooney, JOHN WIGHT explores how the sport can be made ‘safer’ than it is at present

JOHN WIGHT writes on the life and illustrious career of Dick McTaggart – perhaps the most underappreciated boxer in history

JOHN WIGHT writes on legendary boxing trainer and philosopher, Cus D’Amato

JOHN WIGHT tells the story of boxer Cuthbert Taylor, who was deemed ‘not white enough’ to be British champion, and how a Welsh theatre group have chosen to keep his name alive
Similar stories

The condemnation of ‘masculine’ female athletes is part of a wider persecution of women who don’t fit the norms of femininity, argues LINDA PENTZ GUNTER