World Athletics Proposes New Eligibility Rules for Elite Female Category
World Athletics, the global governing body for track and field, has unveiled proposed changes to its eligibility regulations for athletes competing in the elite female category. These changes, which include the introduction of a cheek swab test, aim to ensure fairness and maintain the integrity of competition. The proposals are part of a broader effort to update the organization’s rules in line with the latest scientific research, legal developments, and the evolving landscape of sport. The consultation process, which began in late January and will run through March 5, invites feedback from athletes on the potential impact of the new rules. However, the consultation is limited to the effects of the changes and does not seek alternative policy suggestions.
Background: The Need for Updated Regulations
The proposed changes come in response to recent advancements in science, sport, and law, which have necessitated a review of the current regulations. World Athletics’ eligibility rules for female athletes have been in place since 2019 and were based on the scientific understanding available at the time. However, new evidence has emerged, particularly regarding the performance differences between athletes with different biological characteristics. The organization has also faced legal and ethical challenges, prompting a re-examination of its policies.
The current regulations for athletes with differences in sex development (DSD) require them to reduce their testosterone levels below 2.5 nmol/L for at least six months before competing in female category events. These rules initially applied to athletes competing in events from 400 meters to one mile but were later expanded to cover all female category events. Additionally, in 2023, World Athletics introduced stricter guidelines for transgender athletes, banning any athlete who had undergone male puberty from competing in the female category.
Key Proposals for the Elite Female Category
The proposed changes to the eligibility regulations include several key recommendations that were approved by the World Athletics Council in December. These recommendations were developed by a working group and are now being put forward for consultation with stakeholders, including athletes, coaches, and federations.
One of the most notable proposals is the introduction of a cheek swab test to detect the presence of the SRY gene, which is typically found on the Y chromosome. This test would serve as a marker for biological sex. In cases where the SRY gene is detected, the athlete may also be required to undergo a testosterone test, either through a cheek swab or a dry blood spot analysis. The SRY gene is considered a highly accurate indicator of biological sex, but the regulations allow for additional diagnostic processes at the athlete’s discretion.
Other proposals include formally defining the female category, revising the eligibility criteria for athletes with DSD and transgender athletes, and merging the current separate regulations for these two groups into a single, unified policy. Additionally, all athletes competing in the female category would be required to undergo a one-time pre-clearance process to ensure they meet the eligibility standards.
Scientific Evidence and Performance Gaps
The proposed changes are supported by new scientific evidence that highlights the performance advantages associated with biological differences. According to the consultation document, recent studies have shown that there is a performance gap between athletes with male and female biological characteristics, even before puberty. This gap is estimated to be around 3-5% in running events and even higher in throwing and jumping competitions. The document states that this gap is due to differences in body structure and physiology, which confer an athletic advantage.
World Athletics has emphasized that these findings are based on the latest research and are intended to ensure a fair and level playing field for all female athletes. The organization argues that the proposed changes are necessary to maintain the integrity of women’s sports, while also respecting the rights and dignity of all athletes.
Reaction from Athletes and Stakeholders
The proposed changes have sparked a mix of reactions from athletes, coaches, and other stakeholders. Some have welcomed the updates as a necessary step to ensure fairness, while others have expressed concerns about the implications for certain groups of athletes. World Athletics has sought to address these concerns by emphasizing that the new regulations are based on the latest scientific evidence and are designed to protect the integrity of the sport.
The consultation process provides an opportunity for athletes and other stakeholders to share their views on the potential impact of the changes. World Athletics has made it clear that it values the input of its stakeholders and is committed to ensuring that the new regulations are fair and inclusive. However, the organization has also stressed that the integrity of the female category must be preserved, and that this is a fundamental principle of the sport.
The Path Forward: Implementation and Next Steps
The outcome of the consultation will be considered by the World Athletics Council at a meeting later in March. The council will decide whether to move forward with the proposed changes and, if so, determine the timeline for their implementation.
World Athletics has emphasized that it is committed to staying at the forefront of scientific research and to ensuring that its policies are aligned with the latest developments in this field. The organization also reiterated its commitment to fairness and inclusivity, stating that it is working to create an environment where all athletes can compete on a level playing field.
The proposed changes to the eligibility regulations for the elite female category represent a significant step in the evolution of athletics. They reflect the complex interplay between science, sport, and society and highlight the ongoing challenges of ensuring fairness in women’s sports. As the consultation process continues, World Athletics will need to carefully consider the feedback from its stakeholders and balance the competing interests at play.
