The boxer at the centre of a gender row at the Paris Olympics has cancelled a planned speaking appearance at the Oxford Union.

Oxford University's debating society announced in September that Imane Khelif would be among several speakers during the term.

The Algerian took gold in the women’s welterweight competition at this summer’s Games in Paris amid huge controversy after the International Boxing Association said she had been disqualified from last year’s World Championships for failing gender eligibility criteria.

She was due to appear on Sunday but the Oxford Arab Society confirmed the boxer's appearance has now been cancelled, according to national newspaper reports.

READ MORE: Demand for action on 'cancel culture' after student suicide

A statement said: "Due to unforeseen circumstances, Imane Khelif is unable to attend the event in collaboration with the Oxford Union and the event has therefore been cancelled.

"We apologise for any disappointment and inconvenience to any members who were looking forward to the event."

Former Olympian and Oxford University student Mara Yamauchi had sent a letter to the Oxford Union ahead of Khelif's scheduled appearance.

In it she urged organisers to uphold “rigorous debate” and free speech at the event.

She also called upon the Union to invite boxers beaten by Khelif at the Olympics to attend the debate in the letter, addressed to the body's president.

Khelif filed a legal complaint with the French authorities over the online abuse and harassment she was subjected to during the Games.