Overview

• World Athletics has confirmed mandatory genetic testing for female athletes, involving a one-time cheek swab or dry blood spot test to verify biological sex.
• The tests will screen for the SRY gene, a marker typically found on the Y chromosome, as a highly accurate method to determine eligibility for women's categories.
• The decision follows extensive consultations with over 70 stakeholders, with strong support for the move to protect the integrity of women's sports.
• The organization plans to finalize regulations and secure a testing provider in the coming weeks, aiming for implementation before the Tokyo World Championships in September 2025.
• While the policy has been praised for prioritizing fairness, it has also drawn criticism over concerns about inclusion and potential legal challenges.