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World Athletics Implements Cheek-Swab Tests to Verify Female Athletes' Eligibility

New DNA testing for female athletes aims to protect the integrity of women's sports amid ongoing debates about transgender participation.

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  1. Track and field to be first Olympic event to require DNA tests to prove sex

    The decision is the latest turn in the heated debate over the participation of transgender women and gender non-conforming athletes in women’s sport.

    Track and field to be first Olympic event to require DNA tests to prove sex

    Al JazeeraAl Jazeera·25d
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Leans Left
    This outlet slightly leans left.
  2. World Athletics to require cheek swab tests for athletes in female track events

    Gender testing has been a contentious issue in sports, with recent controversies surrounding the eligibility of athletes like Imane Khelif of Algeria and Lin Yu-ting of Taiwan, both of whom won gold medals in female events at the Paris Olympics.

    World Athletics to require cheek swab tests for athletes in female track events

    Straight Arrow NewsStraight Arrow News·25d
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  3. World Athletics to Require Gene Tests for Female Runners

    The measure is designed to maintain fairness in the women's category of track and field events.

    World Athletics to Require Gene Tests for Female Runners

    NewsmaxNewsmax·25d
    Mixed Reliable
    This source has a mixed track record—sometimes accurate but also prone to bias, sensationalism, or incomplete reporting.
    ·
    Right
    This outlet favors right-wing views.
  1. Al Jazeera
  2. Straight Arrow News
  3. Newsmax
Updated: Mar 26th, 2025, 12:59 AM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

World Athletics will implement cheek-swab testing to verify if athletes are female, aiming to maintain fairness in women's events. Sebastian Coe highlighted this measure as essential for integrity and confidence in competition. The tests, requiring a single sample during an athlete's career, target the SRY gene linked to male development. Controversy surrounding gender testing has surged, particularly regarding transgender participation in women's sports. This policy update reflects broader discussions on fairness and inclusion in athletics.

Perspectives

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  • World Athletics is implementing cheek-swab tests for athletes in the female category to ensure integrity in women's sports.

  • President Sebastian Coe emphasized the importance of these tests in maintaining confidence and fairness in competition.

  • The tests will detect the SRY gene, crucial for male-typical development, and reflect a commitment to protecting the female category.

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