Scientific Neglect: Cis-Bias in the Sociology of Sport’s Approach to Trans Athletes

In light of the growing interest in trans athletes, this article explores how research on this population has been conducted within the sociology of sport from 2006 to 2021. Drawing on concepts from trans studies and Viviane Namaste’s notions of erasure and oversight, this paper highlights the presence of cis-biases—understood as an interpretation of transness rooted in a cis-centered perspective. These cis-biases are identified at three levels: (1) Theoretical: Limited integration of trans studies, leading to the erasure of trans knowledge; (2) Methodological: Barriers to accessing the field and a lack of participant diversity; and (3) Analytical: A focus on athletes’ bodies and the individualization of discrimination. Ultimately, this article calls for a stronger dialogue between trans studies and the sociology of sport.