FA allows transgender players in women’s football under new rules

FA Introduces Revised Guidelines Without Enforcing Ban

The Football Association (FA) has confirmed it will not impose a blanket ban on transgender athletes participating in women’s football in England, instead introducing a revised policy based on individual eligibility assessments. The new rules—effective April 1—have ignited renewed debate across the sporting community.

The updated framework allows transgender women to participate in amateur women’s football if they meet specific hormonal criteria, primarily maintaining testosterone levels below 5 nmol/L for at least 12 months. According to FA data, 20 transgender women are currently registered to play amateur football under these conditions.

Key Considerations: Safety and Fairness

The FA stated that each application will be assessed individually, and two key criteria will be prioritized in eligibility decisions: the safety of competitors and the fairness of competition.

In its official guidance, the FA emphasized a collaborative approach, aiming to resolve disputes through dialogue:

“Where there is an issue about a player's eligibility, efforts will always be made to resolve it through dialogue between the player, the county FA and the FA.”

However, the rules also outline that if eligibility is questioned following match observations, or if the FA “reasonably considers” that a player's participation may compromise safety or fairness, the matter may be escalated to the FA’s Transgender and Non-Binary Eligibility Committee for a final determination.

Policy Applies to Amateur Level; FIFA Guidance for Professional Cases

At present, no transgender women are playing in the professional tiers of English football. If such a case arises, the FA stated it will seek guidance from FIFA, whose own transgender participation policy also focuses on testosterone thresholds and does not enforce outright bans.

The FA’s decision contrasts with recent developments in other sports. Earlier this year, the NCAA in the United States implemented a ban on transgender women competing in women’s college athletics. Similarly, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton launched an investigation into USA Fencing after a female competitor was disqualified for refusing to face a transgender opponent.

Public Controversy and Campaign Pressure

The FA has faced increasing pressure from campaign groups advocating for policies that mirror stricter regulations adopted by other sporting bodies. In November, a protest was staged outside Wembley Stadium, following an incident in which a 17-year-old girl was suspended for two matches after repeatedly questioning a transgender opponent's gender.

Despite the criticism, FA Chief Executive Mark Bullingham defended the current approach in public comments last month, though he acknowledged that the organization remains open to adjusting the policy over time.

“We are not ruling out refining the rules,” he said, pointing to the need for both inclusion and fairness.

A Complex and Evolving Landscape

The decision by the FA underscores the complexity of managing gender identity and competitive integrity in sport. By choosing a case-by-case framework rather than blanket restrictions, the FA aims to strike a balance between inclusivity and safeguarding the core principles of fair play and athlete welfare.

While the policy has its critics, it also reflects the FA’s attempt to navigate an evolving international debate with sensitivity, accountability, and transparency.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for ongoing updates on sports governance, athlete rights, and policy developments across football and beyond.