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FA and Scottish FA Ban Trans Women from Women's Football After Court Ruling

The decision, effective June in England and the 2025-26 season in Scotland, follows a UK Supreme Court ruling redefining 'woman' by biological sex under the Equality Act.

 Fae Fulconis joue pour le club londonien Hackney Women FC, en sixième division anglaise.
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Overview

  • The Football Association (FA) and Scottish FA announced new policies barring transgender women from women's football competitions, citing compliance with a recent UK Supreme Court decision.
  • The bans will take effect on June 1, 2025, in England and at the start of the 2025-26 season in Scotland, impacting around 20 registered amateur players in England.
  • Previously, trans women could compete in women's football under FA rules if they maintained low testosterone levels, a policy now voided by the legal redefinition of 'woman.'
  • Both federations stated they will contact affected players to explain the changes and offer guidance on alternative ways to stay involved in football.
  • The Supreme Court's April 16 ruling, prompted by a lawsuit from For Women Scotland, has broader implications for single-sex spaces under the Equality Act, sparking advocacy and backlash from various groups.