The Football Association (FA) has announced that transgender women will no longer be allowed to compete in women’s football in England, with the ban coming into force from 1 June 2025.
The decision, revealed on 1 May, follows a landmark ruling by the UK Supreme Court on 16 April, which clarified that the definition of “woman” under the Equality Act 2010 refers to biological sex rather than gender identity. The ruling has already prompted similar policy changes in other sports, including netball and rugby.
Under the new guidelines, only biologically female players will be eligible to play in women’s football across all levels—from grassroots to the professional game. This marks a major change from the FA’s previous approach, which allowed transgender women to compete if they met certain medical criteria, including testosterone levels.
The FA estimates that the change will directly affect between 20 and 30 players at grassroots level. To support those impacted, the governing body has offered access to free therapy via Sporting Chance and is encouraging affected individuals to consider alternative roles in the game, such as coaching, officiating, or administration.
In a move aimed at maintaining inclusivity, the FA also confirmed plans to introduce mixed-gender football categories starting in the 2026–27 season.
Reaction to the announcement has been polarising. Advocacy group Fair Play for Women welcomed the move, calling it a win for fairness in sport. Fiona McAnena, campaigns director at Sex Matters, said: “This is a necessary step for the future of women’s sport.”
But others voiced concern. Goal Diggers FC, a trans-inclusive football club, said: “This ban damages the community and the inclusivity football should represent.”
In a statement, the FA said: “We are committed to complying with the law while continuing to support all players. Football should be for everyone, and we are exploring ways to ensure that remains true within the legal framework.”
The ruling adds to an ongoing national debate about how sport should balance fairness and inclusion—a debate that shows no sign of slowing as the new policy takes effect next summer.