GleamBlog

"We acknowledge the paucity of research at this time, but can only look at what's available to use," said British Cycling chief executive Jon Dutton.

"I am confident that we have developed policies that both safeguard the fairness of cycle-sport competition, whilst ensuring all riders have opportunities to participate.

"We have always been very clear that this is a challenge far greater than one sport. We remain committed to listening to our communities, to monitor changes in the scientific and policy landscape, to ensure that sport is inclusive for all."

Fiona McAnena from Fair Play For Women told BBC Radio 4's World at One she was "concerned about all the women and girls who need to know that sport will be fair so I think an open category is a great solution because it doesn't negate anyone's identity…[and] the female category can be protected."

"We're finally reverting to fairness. We are going to see it across all sports."

However Joanna Harper - a sports scientist who studies the effects of transition on transgender athletes, and who is transgender herself - said she was "disappointed but not surprised".

"I don't think it's necessary" she told BBC Radio 5Live. "Trans women have been competing in cycling for many years…and although they have achieved some success in the sport, they are under-represented and are not anywhere near taking over the sport."

In March, UK Athletics also banned transgender women from competing in the female category in its competitions and events. There have been similar moves in swimming,triathlon and both codes of rugby.

A number of studies have suggested transgender women retain cardiovascular and strength advantages compared to female athletes, even after taking testosterone-suppressing hormones.

Critics of transgender athletes' participation in some women's sports argue that gives them a disproportionate advantage over their peers and limits opportunities for their rivals.

However, others argue there is not enough detailed research in the area, that the science is not clear, and that with very few elite transgender athletes, sport should be more inclusive, with open categories criticised for being discriminatory.

British Cycling said its women-only community programme "will continue to remain open and inclusive for transgender women and non-binary people" who can "continue to participate in a broad range of British Cycling activities in line with their gender identities".

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