Athletics India has announced a new policy that will require all athletes to undergo Sex-Determining Region Y (SRY) gene testing starting from May 2026. This decision aims to ensure fair competition and maintain the integrity of women’s athletic events.
The SRY gene, typically found on the Y chromosome, is responsible for initiating male sex determination in embryos. Testing for this gene will help identify athletes with differences in sexual development (DSD) or those who may have an unfair advantage in women’s categories.
Key Points of the Policy
- Mandatory Testing: All female athletes competing in Athletics India events will be required to undergo SRY gene testing before they can participate.
- Implementation Date: The policy will take effect from May 2026, giving athletes and officials ample time to prepare.
- Confidentiality: Test results will be handled with strict confidentiality to protect athletes’ privacy.
- Compliance: Failure to undergo or pass the testing will result in disqualification from women’s categories.
Reasons Behind the Initiative
- Fairness in Competition: Ensuring that all competitors in women’s events meet eligibility criteria prevents unfair advantages.
- Aligning with Global Standards: This move aligns Athletics India with international athletics bodies that have similar regulations.
- Protecting Athlete Integrity: The policy promotes transparency while respecting the dignity of all athletes.
This development is anticipated to generate a spectrum of responses from athletes, coaches, and stakeholders, but Athletics India emphasizes that the measure is essential to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and equality in athletics.
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Athletics Federation of India to Launch Mandatory SRY Gene Testing for Female Athletes in May