DNA examinations prior to World Cup: A select number of female athletes yet to obtain genetic verification
In the lead-up to the World Athletics Championships, a controversy has arisen over the implementation of SRY genetic tests for female athletes competing in the women's category.
During a World Athletics Council meeting in Tokyo, the SRY genetic tests were discussed and approved. The tests, designed to determine biological sex by detecting the presence of the Y chromosome, are a response to protecting the women's category, as stated by World Athletics President Sebastian Coe.
However, not all athletes are on board with the new testing protocol. Olympic long jump champion Malaika Mihambo has expressed criticism about the implementation of the SRY genetic tests, stating that they were organized at very short notice. Mihambo also believes that the scope of the issue could be better explained by human geneticists, doctors, or researchers.
Despite Mihambo's concerns, more than 95% of participants for the World Athletics Championships have completed the mandatory genetic test. Teams from France and Norway, as well as some French-based athletes, are among those who have yet to complete the tests.
Feedback on the SRY genetic tests will be collected during the championships, with Sebastian Coe reiterating his support for the tests. The World Athletics Federation was responsible for the genetic testing of the participants, requiring all female athletes to undergo a one-time SRY gene test to verify biological sex.
Mihambo, however, has suggested that scientists and experts from relevant institutions would be better suited to clarify the unresolved questions regarding the testing. The remaining genetic tests will be conducted in Tokyo before the competitions begin, with the next steps for the tests from 2026 onwards to be determined based on the feedback collected.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe thanked the member federations for their cooperation, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a fair and inclusive environment for all athletes. The championships, set to take place from September 13 to 21, promise to be an exciting event, amidst the ongoing debate surrounding the SRY genetic tests.
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