Starting from 1 September, athletes aiming to compete in the female category for world ranking competitions will be required to undergo a one time gene test, according to World Athletics, under the supervision of the federation.
The updated regulations will take effect from 1 September and will apply to events like the World Athletics Championships, scheduled to run from 13-21 September in Tokyo.
The test checks for the presence of the SRY gene found on the Y chromosome and responsible for the development of male characteristics and can be conducted through a simple cheek swab or blood sample.
Athletes who test negative for the Y chromosome will be eligible to compete in the female category.
Those who test positive will be allowed to participate either in non-world ranking female events or in a different competition category altogether.
This test is only required once in an athlete’s lifetime and will be administered under the supervision of their respective member federations.
