Partial victory for Semenya at Swiss Court

The Grand Chamber of the European Court has upheld a 2023 ruling confirming that Caster Semenya’s, appeal to a Swiss Federal Tribunal against regulations barring her from competing was in violation of her rights.

The double 800m Olympic champion, is contesting World Athletics regulations that requires female athletes with differences in sexual development to medically lower their testosterone levels.

While the Grand Chamber’s decision, part of the European Court of Human Rights, does not invalidate these regulations, it allows Semenya to continue her challenge against them.

Speaking to reporters outside the court, Semenya says although she is not returning to the track, she is fighting for a larger cause.

“It’s a battle for human rights now. It’s not about competing. It’s about putting athletes’ rights first. It’s about the protection of athletes.”

The case may now be sent back to the Swiss courts or possibly the Court of Arbitration for Sport.