According to British media reports, the world athletics association could follow the new rules of the international swimming association for trans people.
As the BBC and the “Mirror” reported online, among others, World Athletics President Sebastian Coe praised the Fina’s specifications and was open to rule changes. “You’re seeing an international federation asserting its right to set rules, regulations and policies that are in the best interest of its sport,” Coe told BBC Sport.
“This is how it should be. We have always believed that biology trumps gender and we will continue to review our regulations accordingly. We will follow the science,” said the two-time Olympic 1500m champion.
Study and research will continue and evidence will be gathered that testosterone plays a key role in performance. At the end of the year, the Executive Committee of the World Athletics Federation should discuss the issue.
On June 19th, Fina set new rules for trans people in swimming competitions. Thereafter, they may only enter women’s competitions if they have completed their gender reassignment by the age of twelve. The Fina has also set up a working group to work on a so-called “open” competition category.
The topic had recently attracted attention, especially in connection with the American Lia Thomas. She became the first trans woman to win the highest level of college athletics in March.