Bridges slams new rules

TRANSGENDER cyclist Emily Bridges’ mother has accused cycling’s world governing body of ‘moving the goalposts’ after they toughened up their inclusion policy. The UCI announced on Thursday they were halving the maximum testosterone level permitted for trans women to compete in the female category.

They have also doubled the period they must remain below that threshold from one to two years. That means Bridges, 21, could be barred from racing in major women’s events until 2024.

In a statement on Twitter, the Welsh rider’s mother Sandy said: ‘We’ve received no communication from the UCI on their plans and how it impacts Em’s application, which started in March 2022. On May 11, the UCI requested Em provide additional blood tests over a period of three months, along with some personal information. ‘We are seeking clarity on why they asked for this information when they were already planning on a policy change. This uncertainty and moving of goalposts has created a significant amount of distress to Em, to us as a family and the wider trans community.’ Swimming’s world governing body, Fina, will announce their own new transgender policy tomorrow.