The first transgender Paralympian, Valentina Petrillo, has delivered a strong statement on inclusion as she prepares to compete in the Paris 2024 Games.
Petrillo, a visually impaired athlete, will represent Italy in the women’s T12 200m and 400m sprints. She won bronze at the World Para Athletics Championships in 2023.
Born male as Fabrizio, Petrillo transitioned in 2019 following hormone therapy. At 50, she also lives with Stargardt disease, a degenerative eye condition with no cure.
Despite facing criticism from German Paralympian Katrin Mueller-Rottgardt, who believes Petrillo might have an ‘advantage’ in the 200m due to her previous training as a man, and a Spanish lawyer who labeled her qualification ‘unfair,’ Petrillo remains resolute and sees the Games as a platform to advocate for inclusivity.
“I’m really excited to be in Paris, to race on that beautiful purple track and in front of such an enthusiastic crowd. I believe there will be more support for me than I can imagine,” Petrillo told Relevo.
“It’s crucial that everyone can express themselves according to their gender. Sport should embody the value of inclusion, which is essential for personal happiness.”
Petrillo has learned to accept what she cannot control and feels stronger mentally, thanks in part to her psychologist. She acknowledges that criticism is inevitable but remains focused on her achievements.
“I understand that dealing with envy and jealousy is part of the journey. I know that what I do is genuine, so I have nothing to fear,” she said.
Petrillo is determined to surpass her personal best of 58.011 seconds from last year, acknowledging the increased competition level.
“I recognize the social and cultural significance of my participation in Paris 2024. I will do everything I can to deliver a strong competitive performance,” she added.
Support for Petrillo comes from both the LGTBIQ+ community and beyond, as many views her as an inspiring role model.
The controversy surrounding her participation follows previous disputes over gender in sports, such as those involving Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting, who faced challenges over gender tests but ultimately won gold medals in their weight classes.
