Archive · 21 Sep 2026
AFI Mandates SRY Gene Tests for Athletes From 2027
The Athletics Federation of India says athletes will need an SRY gene test to enter its approved competitions from 2027.
The rule would apply to athletes of every age.
It cannot begin until the required legal steps are completed.
AFI made the decision at a meeting on September 19.
The SRY test can use a cheek swab or a blood sample.
World Athletics describes the test as a way to help determine biological sex.
World Athletics already requires this test once for athletes competing in the female category at its World Championships.
The Indian federation said its new rule follows those international regulations.
The Athletics Federation of India will require SRY gene tests for athletes in all AFI-approved competitions from 2027.
The requirement will apply across all age categories, according to the AFI.
The policy remains subject to completion of applicable legal formalities.
The decision was made at an emergent AFI executive council meeting on September 19.
World Athletics rules already require athletes seeking to compete in the female category at World Championships to undergo a one-time SRY gene test.
- Who
- The Athletics Federation of India and athletes competing in AFI-approved events.
- What
- AFI announced that SRY gene testing will be mandatory for participation in its approved competitions.
- When
- The requirement is scheduled to take effect in 2027, subject to legal formalities; the decision was made on September 19.
- Where
- AFI-approved athletics competitions in India.
- Why
- The decision follows World Athletics regulations requiring SRY gene testing for athletes competing in the female category at World Championships.
- Policy
- Mandatory SRY gene testing for participation in AFI-approved competitions
- Effective date
- 2027, subject to completion of legal formalities
- Coverage
- All age categories
- Decision body
- AFI emergent executive council
- Decision date
- September 19
- Testing methods
- Cheek swab or blood sample
- International context
- World Athletics requires a once-in-a-lifetime SRY test for female-category eligibility at World Championships