AFI panel to certify quality of synthetic tracks in India

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) panel will oversee and certify the quality of synthetic tracks laid across the country to ensure they meet required standards, announced Adille Sumariwalla, former AFI president and World Athletics vice president.

Sumariwalla stated the certification of all new synthetic tracks will be issued by the AFI going forward.

He made the remarks during a virtual media interaction following the AFI Annual General Meeting held in Kohima, Nagaland, where the agenda item was discussed.

World Athletics reported that Sumariwalla had raised concerns last year at the 2025 Tokyo World Athletics Championships regarding the poor quality of some synthetic tracks in India.

“This is the main reason AFI had to step in to ensure good quality material is used in the future. The work of laying new synthetic tracks should also be given to reputed vendors,” he said.

Sumariwalla noted that many synthetic tracks nationwide are allegedly constructed with sub-standard materials due to inadequate monitoring, resulting in a shorter lifespan for the surfaces.

Additionally, the AGM addressed the implementation of a one-time SRY gene test for athletes competing in the female category at all World Athletics-sanctioned events. The AFI, in coordination with World Athletics, is initiating this testing procedure.

Commenting on the test’s costs, Sumariwalla said, “It’s an expensive test (SRY gene test). Therefore, AFI will financially support the athletes. ” He also emphasised that the AFI will closely monitor the testing to prevent impersonation.