Seb Coe confirms 90% uptake of SRY gene testing for female athletes

Introduction to SRY gene testing at the World Athletics Championships

As the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo approach, Sebastian Coe, president of World Athletics, has announced that more than 90% of athletes competing in female categories have undergone the SRY gene test. This test is designed to detect the presence of the Y chromosome, which typically triggers male biological traits, ensuring fair competition within female events.

What is the SRY gene test and why is it important?

The SRY gene test identifies whether an athlete carries the sex-determining region Y (SRY) gene, a critical factor in male biological development. If the test returns negative, indicating the absence of the Y chromosome, the athlete is eligible to participate in female categories at world-ranking competitions such as the World Athletics Championships, starting 13 September 2025.

This one-time, non-invasive test involves either a blood sample or a cheek swab, making the process straightforward and minimally disruptive to athletes' preparations. The introduction of this test aims to uphold the integrity of female competitions, balancing inclusivity with fairness.

The rollout and reception of the SRY test among athletes

World Athletics approved the use of the SRY test in March 2025 and mandated it for athletes competing in female categories from 1 September onwards. Lord Coe emphasised that the testing programme has been met with broad acceptance across the athletics community: "The athletes are overwhelmingly supportive of this and have been very helpful in all this. The member federations have been very supportive and we needed to establish the most effective test."

National federations such as UK Athletics oversee the administration of tests domestically, while World Athletics provides support and testing facilities internationally where national bodies face challenges.

Challenges faced in testing implementation

Despite the overall smooth implementation, some hurdles have arisen. For example, French athletes must travel abroad to take the test due to French law prohibiting DNA testing for non-medical purposes. Moreover, the tight timeframe ahead of the Championships means some athletes’ results may be pending, although tests themselves are expected to be completed.

Comparisons with other sports adopting SRY testing

Athletics is not alone in introducing SRY testing. World Boxing recently enforced mandatory SRY tests for competitors in female categories, including for the upcoming World Boxing Championships in Liverpool. This demonstrates a growing trend in sport to address gender eligibility with genetics-based measures.

The boxing world has witnessed high-profile eligibility disputes, such as those involving Olympic champion Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting, which have highlighted the complexities of gender verification processes. While Khelif has not withdrawn from competition due to the new testing, her case underscores the sensitivity and scrutiny surrounding these policies.

The broader debate on fairness and inclusion in sport

The introduction of the SRY test has sparked varied reactions. Advocates argue it is necessary to protect the integrity of female sport and ensure a level playing field. Critics, however, raise concerns about privacy, the potential for discrimination, and the psychological impact on athletes.

Lord Coe has pledged that World Athletics will "do whatever is necessary" to protect female competition while respecting athletes’ dignity. This balance remains a delicate and evolving challenge in global sport governance.

What does this mean for the future of athletics?

The adoption of SRY testing signals a significant shift in how gender categories are managed in elite sport. It reflects a commitment to scientific methods to uphold fairness but also opens ongoing discussions about inclusivity, legal frameworks, and the rights of athletes with differences of sex development (DSD) or transgender status.

As the 2025 World Athletics Championships commence, the implementation of the SRY test will be closely observed by fans, officials, and athletes alike. Its success or shortcomings could influence policies across other sports and future international events.

Conclusion: balancing fairness and respect in female athletics

The 90% uptake of the SRY gene test ahead of the World Athletics Championships represents a milestone in addressing gender eligibility. By combining scientific rigour with athlete cooperation, World Athletics aims to safeguard the integrity of female sport. However, the ongoing debate ensures this issue will remain at the forefront of sports policy discussions for years to come.

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