There will be no gender testing during the World Championships in Falun. Uncertainty remains over who will be tested, who will conduct the tests, and who will bear the costs.

Last autumn, the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) mandated gender testing for all athletes competing in the women’s category. This rule was set to take effect from July 2026. 

However, that will not be the case. 

“No rush to finalize”

FIS has been unable to finalize key details, including who will be tested, who will conduct the tests, and who will pay for them.

The federation has now decided to postpone the implementation. 

“Not all details are in place. To avoid rushing something so sensitive, there will be no testing during the 2026/2027 season,” says communications manager Bruno Sassi to Dagens Nyheter.

“The guidelines will be published once the following are clarified: start date, who will conduct the tests, and who will pay for them,” says Sassi.

Thus, there will be no gender testing during the World Championships in Falun, scheduled from February 22 to March 7, 2027. 

Also Read: FIS unveils 2026/2027 cross-country skiing World Cup calendar

Controversial – and banned in Norway

The test in question aims to determine whether athletes possess the so-called SRY gene. Individuals who are SRY-negative can compete in the women’s category, while SRY-positive individuals can compete in the men’s category, regardless of their gender identity.

According to FIS, the purpose of gender testing is to protect women’s sports. 

Several federations have already implemented requirements for such testing, including athletics, boxing, and tennis.  Ahead of the athletics World Championships in Tokyo last autumn, reactions poured in both in Norway and internationally. However, such testing is banned in Norway, as the Biotechnology Act prohibits genetic testing in the country. 

In connection with the athletics World Championships in Tokyo last year, the issue was resolved by testing athletes in Japan, organized by the International Association of Athletics Federations.    

Read More: No gender tests for skiers – for now

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