World Athletics to Implement Genetic Testing for Female Athletes

World Athletics plans to introduce a one-time genetic test for female athletes to ensure fair competition in women's events. The test aims to exclude competitors with the SRY gene, associated with male sex. The decision follows ongoing eligibility debates concerning transgender and DSD athletes.

World Athletics is set to introduce a one-time genetic test for female athletes, aiming to tighten the eligibility criteria for women's events. This move, announced by World Athletics President Sebastian Coe, is a response to prolonged debates surrounding the participation of transgender and DSD athletes in female categories.

The proposed regulations, which will be drafted soon, require athletes to undergo a non-invasive cheek swab or dry blood spot analysis. The test seeks to determine the presence of the SRY gene, which typically signals male sex characteristics. Athletes will only need to undergo this test once in their careers.

Despite potential legal challenges, Coe expressed confidence in the new regulations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining fairness in female athletics. The initiative follows findings that current rules are insufficient to address the advantages some athletes may have due to their biological traits.

(With inputs from agencies.)