- English FA announces new policy excluding transgender women from female football
- The decision follows a UK Supreme Court ruling defining sex based on biology
- Affected players will be contacted and offered alternative ways to stay involved
The English Football Association (FA) has announced that transgender women will no longer be permitted to participate in female football across England, citing a recent legal judgment as the basis for the policy shift.
In a statement issued on Thursday, May 1, the FA said the new policy will take effect from June 1, 2025, and follows an April 16 ruling by the UK Supreme Court affirming that, under British law, the definition of “woman” pertains strictly to biological sex.
"This is a complex subject, and our position has always been that if there was a material change in law, science, or the operation of the policy in grassroots football, then we would review it and change it if necessary," the FA stated.
The decision marks a reversal of the association’s earlier position which permitted transgender women to compete in women’s football if their testosterone levels remained below 5 nmol/L for at least 12 months.
The FA acknowledged the emotional impact the change may have on those affected. “We understand this will be difficult for people who simply want to play the game they love in the gender by which they identify,” the statement continued. The FA added that it is reaching out directly to registered transgender women players to explain the decision and explore how they can remain involved in football.
Scotland’s football authority has followed suit, similarly barring transgender women from women’s competitions.
Globally, the inclusion of transgender women in female sports remains contentious. In the past year, sporting bodies such as World Athletics, FINA (International Swimming Federation), and the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) have enacted bans.
Meanwhile, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) maintains more inclusive policies.
In the U.S., President Donald Trump earlier this year signed an executive order prohibiting transgender athletes from participating in girls’ and women’s sports.
Marc Guehi avoids FA sanctions over religious message on rainbow armband
In an earlier report by TheRadar, the English Football Association (FA) confirmed that Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi would not face any charges after writing the phrase “I love Jesus” on his rainbow-coloured captain's armband during a 1-1 Premier League draw against Newcastle United.
Guehi's handwritten message raised concerns about potential disciplinary action, as the rainbow armband was part of the Stonewall Rainbow Laces campaign, which promotes LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity.
