July 22, 2025

The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) recently updated its Athlete Safety Policy, requiring all National Governing Bodies “to ensure that women have a fair and safe competition environment consistent with Executive Order 14201 and the Ted Stevens Olympic & Amateur Sports Act.”

This update effectively prohibits transgender female eligibility within women’s categories at all USA Climbing sanctioned events. We recognize the impact this regulation will have on valued members of our community and remain committed to the well-being, development, and competitive excellence of all of our athletes.

As you may recall, USA Climbing and the Transgender Athlete Participation (TAP) Policy Revision group have spent significant time, effort, and resources soliciting member feedback, hosting listening sessions, and drafting new TAP guidelines. While we are aware that today’s news will be disappointing to many, we thank the TAP Policy Revision Group, USA Climbing members, and other stakeholders who have contributed to this important process.

USA Climbing will share a new TAP Policy as soon as possible, as required by the USOPC.

Transgender Athlete Participation FAQs

USOPC Athlete Safety Policies

Board of Directors Provides Direction on Transgender Athlete Participation Policy (January 21, 2025)

USA Climbing Transgender Athlete Participation Policy (Under Review)

Update from USA Climbing CEO and Board Chair (December 21, 2023)

Update from USA Climbing CEO and Board Chair (October 4, 2023)