World Athletics announced on Tuesday the approval of a new cheek swab test to verify whether an athlete is biologically female, a move aimed at safeguarding the integrity of women’s sports.
The decision, ratified by the governing body’s decision-making Council, was described as “really important” by Sebastian Coe, President of World Athletics. Speaking at a press conference following the World Indoor Championships in Nanjing, Coe emphasized the necessity of the measure in protecting fair competition.
“This step is crucial not just for discussing the integrity of women’s sports but for actually guaranteeing it,” Coe stated. “We believe this approach will reinforce confidence and ensure the fairness of competition.”
The policy follows extensive consultations, with overwhelming support from stakeholders, according to Coe. He acknowledged concerns about intrusiveness but maintained that the swab test was a balanced solution.
Addressing potential legal challenges, Coe expressed confidence in the policy’s resilience, citing previous victories at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) regarding regulations on Differences of Sex Development (DSD).
“We are prepared to defend this policy rigorously,” he said. “Our commitment to protecting the female category in athletics is unwavering.”
The announcement comes a week after Coe’s third-place finish in the International Olympic Committee (IOC) presidential election, which saw Zimbabwean former Olympic swimmer Kirsty Coventry secure the position.
World Athletics’ decision is expected to take effect in upcoming competitions, though further details on implementation timelines remain undisclosed.
Leave feedback about this