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Gary Lineker Faces Backlash Over Comments on Transgender Athletes in Sports

Lineker's remarks defending trans inclusion and downplaying fairness concerns draw sharp criticism from sports figures and public commentators.

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 26: BBC Presenter and Former Footballer Gary Lineker, looks on while presenting after the Emirates FA Cup Semi Final match between Crystal Palace and Aston Villa at Wembley Stadium on April 26, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Gary Lineker described transgender people as 'some of the most persecuted on the planet' and questioned whether their participation in sports poses a significant issue.
  • His comments followed recent UK Supreme Court and Equality Act rulings defining 'sex' by biology, prompting bans on transgender women in female competitions by major UK sports bodies.
  • Prominent figures, including Sharron Davies, Martina Navratilova, and JK Rowling, criticized Lineker, calling his views uninformed and dismissive of fairness and safety concerns in women's sports.
  • The Football Association confirmed its ban on transgender women in women's football will take effect on June 1, with impacted players being notified of the changes.
  • Lineker’s remarks come amid broader debates on balancing inclusion, individual rights, and fairness in sports, as well as scrutiny over his public commentary on other contentious topics.