French Government Divided Over Proposed Ban on Religious Symbols in Sports

The controversial law, which includes banning the Islamic veil, faces criticism for undermining inclusivity and equality in sports.

The proposed law, passed by the French Senate in February 2025, seeks to ban all religious symbols, including the Islamic veil, in sports competitions, even at the amateur level.
Prime Minister François Bayrou supports the ban but has called for unity among ministers, as divisions persist within the government.
Prominent athlete Teddy Riner has publicly criticized the measure, advocating for equality and opposing the targeting of specific religions.
Critics warn that the ban could marginalize Muslim women and harm inclusivity in sports, contrasting France's stance with other countries where such symbols are permitted.
The law, part of a broader push by the LR Party to limit religious symbols in public spaces, awaits debate in the National Assembly, with no date yet scheduled.