DNA Cheek Swab Mandated for Female Athletes
Under the new World Athletics policy, athletes who compete in the female category will be required to submit to a cheek swab or dry blood-spot test to detect the presence of a gene that indicates whether the athlete has a “Y” chromosome, which is typically found in males.
This approach marks a return to genetic testing to verify eligibility for women’s events, a practice that had been abandoned in favor of testosterone-based regulations in recent years.
A Shift in Gender Verification Policies
Historically, gender verification in athletics has been a controversial topic. From the 1960s to the 1990s, female athletes were subjected to mandatory chromosome testing, but the practice was discontinued due to ethical concerns and its inability to fully account for intersex variations and differences in sex development (DSD). In recent years, World Athletics has focused on testosterone regulations, requiring some female athletes with naturally high testosterone levels to lower them through medical treatment to compete in women’s categories.
The reintroduction of chromosome-based testing signals a shift back toward genetic markers in eligibility determinations. According to Coe, the decision was made to provide a “clear and scientific” approach to gender classification in sports, though it is likely to ignite renewed debate over fairness, inclusivity, and human rights.
Reactions and Implications
The decision has already sparked discussion among athletes, medical experts, and advocacy groups. Supporters argue that the policy is necessary to protect the competitive balance in women’s sports, ensuring that only biologically female athletes compete in female categories. They contend that athletes with a Y chromosome may have physiological advantages that persist even when testosterone levels are reduced.
On the other hand, critics argue that the policy may unfairly target intersex and transgender athletes, reinforcing outdated notions of sex and gender. Advocacy groups warn that such measures could lead to discrimination, invasions of privacy, and potential legal challenges.
Looking Ahead
As World Athletics moves forward with implementing these new tests, the broader sports community will be watching closely to see how the policy is enforced and how athletes respond. The debate over gender classification in sports is far from settled, and this latest decision is likely to add another layer of complexity to an already contentious issue.
With sports organizations worldwide grappling with the balance between inclusion and fairness, World Athletics’ decision may set a precedent for other governing bodies. Whether this move will withstand legal and ethical scrutiny remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly marks a significant moment in the evolving landscape of gender and competition in sports.
