World Athletics Enforces New Gene Test Rules for Female Eligibility
World Athletics has set a September 1 deadline for female athletes to undergo gene testing to qualify for the forthcoming World Championships. The updated rules aim to address ongoing debates around athlete eligibility, a situation highlighted by Caster Semenya's challenges to earlier regulations regarding Differences in Sex Development.
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The governing body of track and field, World Athletics, has announced a deadline of September 1 for female athletes to pass a gene test in order to compete in the world championships. Athletes must undergo chromosome testing, a measure set to take effect before the upcoming competition in Tokyo.
World Athletics introduced the new rules, clarifying their position on eligibility for elite-level events, requiring athletes to be biologically female. This regulation follows years of controversy surrounding athletes like Caster Semenya, who has contested previous rules affecting those with Differences in Sex Development.
The new testing framework combines protocols for DSD and transgender athletes, ensuring clarity in eligibility standards. The changes come in the wake of ongoing legal battles, such as Semenya's recent ruling at the European Court of Human Rights, which reignited the long-standing debate.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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