Athletes Embrace Gene Testing for Fair Competition in World Championships

World Athletics president Lord Coe has announced that athletes are "overwhelmingly supportive" of the new gene test being introduced for those competing in the female category. The test, which checks for the SRY gene—part of the Y chromosome responsible for male characteristics—was approved in March and will be mandatory for world ranking competitions.

How the Gene Test Works

One-Time Requirement: The test only needs to be taken once.
Non-Invasive Methods: It can be conducted via a cheek swab or blood test.
Eligibility: Athletes testing negative for the Y chromosome are eligible to compete in the female category.

Implementation Timeline

Effective Date: The regulations come into effect on 1 September.
World Championships: The test will be in operation for the Tokyo World Championships starting on 13 September.

Athlete Support and Testing Process

Coe estimates that over 90% of female athletes competing in Tokyo will have been tested before arriving in Japan. The remaining athletes will be tested in their pre-competition holding camps.

"The athletes are overwhelmingly supportive of this, and have been very, very helpful in all this," Coe said. He emphasized the importance of testing athletes before Tokyo but acknowledged that testing could also be done on-site if necessary.

Broader Regulatory Changes

This gene test is part of a series of measures approved at the World Athletics Council meeting in March to tighten regulations for transgender and DSD (Difference of Sex Development) athletes. In March 2023, World Athletics introduced a ban on transgender athletes who had undergone male puberty from competing in the female category.

Current Rules for DSD Athletes

Testosterone Levels: DSD athletes must reduce their testosterone levels to a set level for at least six months to compete internationally.

Financial Challenges in Athletics

Coe also addressed the financial issues surrounding the Grand Slam Track competition, launched by Michael Johnson. The league, which began in 2025, offered significant financial incentives but has struggled to meet payment timelines. The final event of the season was cancelled in June, and Johnson confirmed the competition will not run in 2026 unless athletes receive their owed payments.

"You've got to have the finance in place. That's absolutely critical," Coe said, expressing sympathy for Johnson's situation.