In a recent decision, World Athletics has announced the introduction of gene testing to determine eligibility for female participation in elite-level competitions. The rule will go into effect ahead of the upcoming World Championships in Tokyo, scheduled for September 13-21.

Ensuring Fairness in Female Athletics

This move aims to ensure fair competition in women’s track and field events by confirming that athletes in the female category meet biological criteria. According to World Athletics president Sebastian Coe, the introduction of gene testing reinforces the integrity of women’s sports and removes the “biological glass ceiling.”

“It is really important in a sport that is permanently trying to attract more women that they enter a sport believing there is no biological glass ceiling,” Coe stated. “The test to confirm biological sex is a very important step in ensuring this is the case.”

What is the SRY Gene Test?

The core of this new regulation is a test for the SRY gene — a gene located on the Y chromosome, which triggers male physiological development. This test, which can be conducted via cheek swab or blood sample, will determine if an athlete has male chromosomes.

  • If the SRY gene is absent: The athlete qualifies to compete in the female category at world-ranking events.
  • If the SRY gene is present: The athlete may compete only in non-world ranking events or in categories outside the female one.

World Athletics has emphasized that the gene test is “extremely accurate,” with minimal risk of false results. National athletics federations will be responsible for administering the tests.

A Global Trend Toward Biological Standards

This testing policy follows similar steps taken by World Boxing, which also made sex testing mandatory earlier this year. The debate surrounding biological advantages, particularly involving transgender women and athletes with Differences of Sex Development (DSD), has gained global attention.

World Athletics already restricts transgender women who have gone through male puberty from participating in female competitions. DSD athletes with elevated testosterone levels are currently required to undergo hormone suppression therapy to compete in women’s events.

Coe: “Gender Cannot Trump Biology”

Sebastian Coe reiterated World Athletics’ stance by stating, “We are saying, at elite level, for you to compete in the female category you have to be biologically female. It was always very clear to me and the World Athletics Council that gender cannot trump biology.”

This move is expected to intensify the global dialogue on fairness and inclusion in sports while attempting to balance science and social equity.

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