IAAF member quits over ‘objectionable’ new rule that disqualifies Semenya
One of the world's most respected sports lawyers has quit his position on a committee of the governing body of international athletics, slamming the controversial new rule that is believed to target gold medal-winning South African runner Caster Semenya.
Four months after being appointed to the IAAF's disciplinary tribunal, Steve Cornelius said "in good conscience" he could not continue in the role.
"The adoption of the new eligibility regulations for female classification is based on the same kind of ideology that has led to some of the worst injustices and atrocities in the history of the planet," Professor Cornelius said.
In his resignation letter the South African law professor accused the IAAF president, Lord Sebastian Coe, of "empty" reform promises.
The letter was addressed to Lord Coe directly.
"How the IAAF Council can, in the 21st Century, when we are meant to be more tolerant and aware of fundamental human rights, even contemplate these kinds of objectionable regulations, is a sad reflection on the fact that the antiquated views of the 'old' scandal-hit IAAF, still prevails and that your promises of reform have been empty indeed," the letter said.
Last week the IAAF announced that it would ban women with naturally occurring high levels of testosterone from specific events — such as the 800 metres, and 1,500 metres — favoured by world and Olympic champion Semenya.
The organisation's chief medical officer, Stephane Bermon told ABC's The Ticket on Sunday that the sport's own scientific evidence shows an unfair advantage in a number of events for women who are described as "intersex".
But the IAAF's science is not peer reviewed and has been described by numerous critics as flawed.
The science found female athletes with high testosterone had the greatest advantage in the pole vault and hammer throw yet these events were not included in the 'restricted events' category.
The IAAF's investigation also found no advantage in the 1,500 metres event but it was included, leading to accusations the new rule is targeting Semenya whose participation always sparks speculation and unwanted debate.
The ABC has approached the IAAF for comment but none was provided.
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