From September, female athletes who want to compete in elite track and field events must undergo gene testing to prove they are biologically female.
This follows a new directive by World Athletics, the international governing body for the sport.
The rule is set to take effect just before the World Championships in Tokyo, which will be held from September 13 to 21.
“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,” said Sebastian Coe, president of World Athletics. “The test to confirm biological sex is a very important step in ensuring this is the case.”
How the Genetic Test Works
The test will screen for the SRY gene, which is typically found on the Y chromosome and triggers male physical development.
It can be done using either a cheek swab or a blood sample. If an athlete does not carry the Y chromosome, she will be cleared to compete in world-ranking female events.
Those who test positive for the gene will not be banned entirely. Instead, they will only be allowed to take part in non-ranking female events or be moved to a different competition category.
Each country’s national athletics federation will handle the gene testing process. World Athletics says the testing is highly accurate with a minimal risk of false results.
This policy is in line with what World Boxing implemented earlier this year, also requiring SRY gene tests for all fighters.
Biology Over Gender Identity, Says Coe
Coe made the organisation’s stance clear: “We are saying, at elite level, for you to compete in the female category you have to be biologically female.” He added, “It was always very clear to me and the World Athletics Council that gender cannot trump biology.”
This rule comes amid long-standing debates about transgender athletes and those with Differences in Sex Development (DSD).
World Athletics had already barred transgender women who went through male puberty from competing in the female category. Athletes with DSD are also required to reduce high testosterone levels through medical treatment before they are allowed to compete.
With this latest move, the global athletics body is drawing a firmer line around biological sex as the standard for fair competition.
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