World Athletics: a gender test to be introduced for female athletes from 01/09/2025

The World Athletics Council has approved the regulation concerning the introduction of an SRY genetic test (male sex marker) for athletes wishing to compete in women's categories, announced the international body on 30/07/2025.

This new eligibility requirement will come into force on 01/09/2025 and will therefore apply to the 2025 World Athletics Championships to be held in Tokyo (JPN) from 13 to 21/09/2025.

"All athletes wishing to compete in the female category at the World Championships are required to undergo a once-in-a-lifetime test for the SRY gene - a reliable proxy for determining biological sex. This is to be conducted via a cheek swab or blood test, whichever is more convenient. The testing protocol will be overseen by member dederations as they prepare their athletes and teams for the Championships in Tokyo," explained the Federation, which also stated that it "does not judge or question gender identity."

World Athletics: regulations based on the recommendations of a working group

The introduction of these gender testing regulations follows recommendations made by "the…