Ontario Human Rights Tribunal declines to order women's cycling team entry

The Ontario Human Rights Tribunal has declined to issue an expedited order requiring Cycling Canada to enter a women’s pursuit team in the upcoming world track championship in Shanghai. While the tribunal ruled there was insufficient time for an expedited hearing before the October deadline, it did not dismiss the underlying allegations of sex-based discrimination.

Five female cyclists—Fiona Majendie, Skyler Goudswaard, Jenna Nestman, Lily Plante, and Justine Thomas—filed the case after the Sport Dispute Resolution Centre of Canada denied their previous appeal. The women seek inclusion in the championship, which serves as a primary qualifier for the 2028 Olympic Games. Currently, Cycling Canada plans to enter only a men’s pursuit team for the event.

The tribunal has scheduled a case management conference to determine if a full hearing regarding the discrimination claims is necessary. Although a recent attempt at mediation between the athletes and the organization was unsuccessful, the tribunal's decision keeps the legal question of discrimination active.