Lia Thomas—the transgender swimmer who was banned from competing in women’s events—lost her case against World Aquatics at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), Reuters reported.
The panel concluded that since Thomas is not entitled to participate in USA Swimming’s elite events, “she is simply not entitled to engage with eligibility to compete” in World Aquatics competitions.
The decision prevents Thomas from having any chance of competing at the Paris Olympics which begin on July 26, as the U.S. trials commence June 15.
In 2022, Thomas, 25, became the first transgender NCAA champion in Division I history. However, soon after World Aquatics (then called FINA) voted to restrict the participation of transgender athletes in elite women’s competitions.
World Aquatics welcomed CAS’ decision, which it said is a “major step forward” in their efforts to protect women’s sports. “World Aquatics is dedicated to fostering an environment that promotes fairness, respect, and equal opportunities for athletes of all genders and we reaffirm this pledge,” the organization stated.