World Athletics Reports Over 95% of Championship Athletes Genetically Tested
Tokyo – More than 95% of athletes competing in the upcoming World Athletics Championships have completed mandatory genetic testing (SRIA), the international governing body for track and field announced yesterday. The screenings, implemented to safeguard fair competition in women’s events, are nearing full completion ahead of the championship’s start next Saturday in Tokyo.
The genetic testing requirement, initiated on September 1st, applies to all athletes wishing to participate in the women’s competitions at the World Championships. Remaining tests for athletes on the French and Norwegian teams, and also those residing in France, are scheduled to be finalized before the opening ceremony. The test involves a single cheek swab or blood sample.
“this was a comprehensive sporting response to a principle that we all believe in, which is the protection of women’s competitions,” stated Sebastian Coe, President of World Athletics.The SRIA tests are designed to identify any genetic variations that might provide an unfair competitive advantage.
