Brazilian Volleyball Confirms Genetic Testing for Female Athletes, Excluding Transgender Players

The Brazilian Volleyball Confederation (CBV) announced on August 14 that only athletes of biological female sex will be allowed to compete in its competitions. The rule, aimed at aligning national play with International Olympic Committee (IOC) and International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) standards, will be enforced through SRY gene testing using blood or buccal swabs. CBV president Radamés Lattari said the change ensures national rules match those in effect internationally. Transgender player Tifanny, the first to compete in the Superliga and 2025 champion, called the policy a “huge step backward” and vowed to continue fighting for inclusion. In February, Supreme Court Justice Cármen Lúcia ruled in her favor, declaring the rule unconstitutional for its impact on gender equality and human dignity.