AFI to Fund Mandatory SRY Gene Testing for Female Athletes

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has announced it will fully fund mandatory SRY gene testing for female athletes, in line with new global regulations from World Athletics. This one-time test is essential for participation in international competitions and aims to ensure fairness in the sport. The AFI has negotiated to reduce testing costs significantly and will oversee the process to maintain athlete privacy. The rollout will occur at key domestic events this season, emphasizing the importance of compliance for eligibility in international competitions. Read on to learn more about this significant development in athletics.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 19, 2026, 02:03 IST

Introduction of SRY Gene Testing by AFI

New Delhi [India] - On April 18, the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) announced its commitment to fully finance the mandatory SRY gene testing for athletes competing in the female category. This initiative aligns with the new global eligibility standards set forth by World Athletics.

Details from the Press Conference

During a press conference held on Saturday, AFI spokesperson and World Athletics Vice President Adille Sumariwalla revealed that the testing process has commenced following discussions at the federation's Annual General Meeting in Kohima on April 14 and 15.

Cost and Implementation of Testing

Sumariwalla stated, “The SRY gene test is essential for participation in the female category at international competitions. It is a one-time requirement, and the AFI will cover the expenses to alleviate any financial burden on the athletes.”

He also mentioned that the federation has successfully negotiated with accredited laboratories to lower the testing fee from Rs 8,000 to Rs 3,500 per athlete.

New Regulations by World Athletics

This initiative follows the new regulations introduced by World Athletics, which will take effect on September 1, 2025, and were first applied during the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo 2025. The rule requires all athletes competing in the female category at world-ranking events to undergo a one-time SRY gene test, which serves as a reliable indicator of biological sex.

AFI's Coordination and Privacy Measures

According to Sumariwalla, the AFI will work directly with laboratories designated by its medical commission and will handle payments for the athletes. “We will also ensure strict oversight of the testing process to prevent impersonation,” he added.

He emphasized that protecting athlete privacy is a top priority, stating, “Once the results are uploaded to the World Athletics database, they will be destroyed to maintain complete confidentiality.”

Testing Rollout and Eligibility

The testing, which can be performed using a cheek swab or blood sample, will be implemented in key domestic competitions this season, including national-level events in Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, Ludhiana, and Delhi.

The AFI reiterated that athletes in the female category must complete the mandatory test to be eligible for international competitions.