The Olympic Committee and the Athletics Federation came to the defense of Ana Peleteiro after her lawsuit for threats

The Spanish Olympic Committee (COE) and the Royal Spanish Athletics Federation (RFEA) expressed their support for the athlete on Thursday Ana Peleteiro after the harassment he suffered on social networks for expressing his opinion on the participation of transgender athletes in the women’s category.

The Galician woman, winner of the bronze Olympic medal in Tokyo 2020, stated in an interview that she supports the entry of transgender athletes into sports, but in the “non-professional” one, due to the genetic difference she believes exists. This caused a wave of reactions against her on social networks, which was condemned by the jumper, who in a statement regretted the “enormous harassment” and insisted that that he will “never” be “for competing against people who are genetically superior”reminding that this is the position of World Athletics, the governing body of world athletics.

“The COE and the RFEA express their support for triple jump Olympic medalist Ana Peleteiro following the harassment she suffered on social media for expressing her opinion on the participation of transgender athletes in the women’s category,” said a joint statement from the two organizations signed by Alejandro Blanco and Raúl Chapado, their presidents.

The two entities pointed out that the Galician woman “showed great dedication and commitment to fair and inclusive sport during her career.” “Their statements about the participation of transgender athletes were given with respect and in accordance with the laws and regulations that apply in the field of sports,” they pointed out.

“Ana Peleteiro’s position coincides with the policy of the International Olympic Committee and World Athletics on the participation of transgender people in official competitions, showing at all times its respect and consideration for gender diversity, and leaving the door open to participation in terms of equality for the future”, added the COE and RFEA.

In this sense, they pointed out that the World Athletics Council «decided to exclude from the competition transgender athletes who have passed male puberty from March 31, 2023to prioritize the fairness and integrity of women’s competition before inclusion,” and that the world body “committed to creating a working group for 12 months to assess the possibility of including transgender athletes in the future.”

“We deeply regret the attacks, insults and threats that Ana Peleteiro received because of her words. These hate speeches are unacceptable and are against the fundamental values ​​that we promote in sport. No one should be subjected to verbal violence or threats for expressing their opinion in a constructive and respectful manner. We reiterate our unconditional support and your fundamental right to express your opinion without fear of reprisal. We will continue to support their work and their commitment to fair and inclusive sport,” they said.

Finally, the COE and RFEA emphasized that they are “committed to respect for diversity and inclusion in sport” and that they strongly believe in the importance of fair and equal sport for all participants, regardless of their gender identity. ».