World Athletics Introduces Mandatory Gene Test for Female Category
Starting this September, athletes competing in the female category for World Athletics ranking events will be required to undergo a one-time gene test to confirm biological sex. The governing body announced the new rule, which will apply to the upcoming World Athletics Championships in Tokyo (13–21 September), as part of ongoing efforts to ensure fair competition.
How the SRY Gene Test Works
The test screens for the SRY gene, a segment of the Y chromosome responsible for male sexual development. Conducted via a simple cheek swab or blood test, the process determines whether an athlete has a Y chromosome.
– Negative result (no Y chromosome detected): The athlete is eligible to compete in the female category.
– Positive result (Y chromosome detected): The athlete may still participate in non-world ranking competitions or in categories outside the female division.
World Athletics describes the test as extremely accurate, with minimal risk of false results. Once completed, athletes will not need to repeat the test, as it remains valid for their entire career.
Why This Policy Was Introduced
According to World Athletics President Lord Coe, the decision ensures fairness in elite sports. “We are saying, at the elite level, for you to compete in the female category, you have to be biologically female,” he stated. “Gender cannot trump biology.”
The organization has emphasized its commitment to equal opportunities for women in athletics, removing any perceived biological glass ceiling that could discourage female participation. The SRY test aligns with similar measures in other sports—World Boxing also implemented mandatory sex verification testing earlier this year.
Broader Impact on Transgender and DSD Athletes
This policy builds on World Athletics’ existing regulations regarding transgender athletes and those with differences in sex development (DSD). In March 2023, the organization barred transgender women who underwent male puberty from female international competitions. The decision followed research indicating that testosterone suppression does not fully negate performance advantages from male development.
For DSD athletes, current rules mandate maintaining testosterone levels below a specified threshold for at least six months before competing in female events from 400m to the mile. A recent working group recommended unifying regulations for both transgender and DSD athletes due to overlapping concerns about athletic fairness.
Legal Challenges and the Caster Semenya Case
The debate over sex eligibility in sports has seen legal repercussions. Earlier this year, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) ruled that South African runner Caster Semenya had her rights violated in a 2020 Swiss court appeal. Semenya, a two-time Olympic champion with DSD, has been unable to compete in her signature 800m event since 2019 due to World Athletics’ testosterone restrictions.
While the ECHR ruling criticized Switzerland’s judicial process, it did not overturn the athletic policies themselves—highlighting the ongoing tension between competitive integrity and human rights.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Fair Competition
The introduction of the SRY gene test underscores World Athletics’ dedication to preserving fairness in women’s sports. By setting clear biological parameters, the organization aims to minimize disputes while maintaining inclusivity in other competitive tiers.
As discussions around gender, biology, and sports evolve, governing bodies must balance scientific evidence, ethical considerations, and athlete rights. The new gene testing requirement marks a pivotal moment in defining eligibility for the female category—one that will shape athletics for years to come.
