World Athletics has approved the introduction of a one-time genetic test for elite athletes who wish to compete in the women’s category at international events.
The “pre-clearance requirement” is among several recommendations that have been approved at the World Athletics Council meeting to tighten regulations concerning the eligibility of transgender and difference of sex development, DSD, athletes.
The test for the SRY gene, which is “almost always on the male Y chromosome” and “is used as a highly accurate proxy for biological sex”, would need to be taken just once by an athlete during their career.
A cheek swab test would be used to look for the SRY gene, while a dried blood spot test could also be used to determine an athlete’s testosterone levels – in addition to the presence of the SRY gene.
Lord Coe, the governing body’s president, said the decision was further evidence that World Athletics would protect the female category.
English (US) ·