Semenya cleared to return after gender verification

"The process initiated in 2009 in the case of Caster Semenya has now been completed," Athletics' world governing body said in a statement. "The IAAF accepts the conclusion of a panel of medical experts that she can compete with immediate effect."

Semenya released a statement saying she was "thrilled" to be able to race again. She could return to competition at the world junior championships in Moncton, Canada, starting 19 July.

"I am thrilled to enter the global athletics arena once again and look forward to competing with all the disputes behind me," Semenya said.

The IAAF said the medical details of the 19-year-old South African's case would remain confidential and it will make no further comment on the matter.

Semenya's lawyers said in a statement that the negotiations with the IAAF had been lengthy and held all over the world. "Our direct negotiations with the IAAF representatives, through the mediator, have been ongoing for 10 months," said Greg Nott, Managing Partner of Dewey and LeBoeuf's Johannesburg office.

"Meetings have been held in Monaco, Istanbul and Paris, but due to the nature of the matter the parties resolved to keep the negotiations confidential."

Semenya underwent gender tests following her dominant win as an 18-year-old at the World Championships in Berlin last August.

It is still unclear if the runner has undergone any medical procedure or treatment during her lengthy lay-off that allows her to keep running as a woman, or what the conditions of the settlement are.

Earlier, Semenya's father said his daughter had told him yesterday morning she was going to be cleared to return to athletics.

Jacob Semenya said she was happy and was waiting for the formal announcement allowing her to return to competition following the controversial gender tests last year.

"She told me she doesn't have any problems and she is happy," Jacob said.