The Cheek Swab test is at the heart of World Athletics plan, as it has introduced the genetic test for female athletes to ensure fair competition. The test involves a cheek swab or dry blood spot analysis to verify biological sex. This move aims to protect women’s sports by ensuring only biologically female athletes compete.
President Sebastian Coe emphasized the importance of safeguarding women’s sports. He stated, “I would never have started this if I wasn’t prepared to take the challenge head-on.” Coe also said, “We feel this is a vital method to instill confidence and maintain a strong focus on competition integrity”.
Despite the potential legal challenges, Coe expressed confidence in the new policy, stating, “We will doggedly protect the female category, and we’ll do whatever is necessary to do it.”
Cheek Swab test detects the SRY gene, which determines male sex. This decision comes amid debates about transgender athletes and those with DSD. Coe expressed confidence in the new policy, stating that World Athletics will protect the female category.
The test will be conducted once in an athlete’s lifetime and implemented before the Tokyo World Championships. World Athletics is also increasing financial support for athletes by raising prize money for Olympic champions.
World Athletics also plans to extend this to silver and bronze medalists by the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
In summary of the above:
World Athletics has introduced a genetic test for female athletes.
The test involves a cheek swab to detect the SRY gene.
The move addresses eligibility issues for transgender athletes and those with DSD.
The test will be conducted once and implemented before the upcoming Tokyo World Championships.
As the sports world continue to grapple with issues of gender eligibility, World Athletics’ decision sets a precedent for other sports organization.
