World Athletics plans to introduce biological pre-clearance tests for track and field athletes before they can compete in the female category, the sport’s governing body announced Tuesday.

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said Tuesday that the track and field’s governing body has approved the introduction of cheek swabs and dry blood-spot tests for female athletes in order to maintain "the integrity of competition.

World Athletics plans to begin genetic testing of all female track and field athletes in a move that could significantly alter gender eligibility rules in Olympic sports.