International Rugby League Announces Temporary Ban on Trans Women Athletes

The International Rugby League (IRL) recently released a statement announcing that “male-to-female (trans women) players” will not be allowed to play in any of the Women’s International Rugby League matches. This ban will keep trans women players from being able to compete in the upcoming World Cup. 

The ban is temporary; IRL wants to consult with the eight Women’s Rugby League World Cup 2021 finalists to decide and work on a potential trans-inclusion policy in the future. The League’s statement is not only controversial but contradictory. IRL states that the reasoning for this ban is to ensure that all players are safe and given a “fair hearing.” In the same breath, they state “the IRL reaffirms its belief that rugby league is a game for all, and that anyone and everyone can play our sport.” 

IRL isn’t the only one to announce a ban lately. IRL’s statement came a day after International Swimming Federation (FINA) announced its ban. FINA is banning trans women who have been through “any part of the male puberty process” or who have transitioned after the aged of 12 from elite women’s swimming.

“We have to protect the rights of our athletes to compete, but we also have to protect competitive fairness at our events, especially the women’s category at FINA competitions,” says Husain Al-Musallam, FINA president. Along with the ban, FINA announced that they’ll create an open category for anyone to participate in.

Unfortunately, IRL and FINA aren’t alone in promoting these bans. FIFA and World Athletics are examining their own policies around gender eligibility regulations.

“This is as it should be. We have always believed that biology trumps gender, and we will continue to review our regulations in line with this. We will follow the science,” says Sebastian Coe, president of World Athletics. 

However, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has a framework stating that athletes shouldn’t be excluded from playing if an unfair advantage is perceived. It also states that trans women don’t need to lower testosterone levels to play against cis women. However, the IOC did leave it up to each sports federation whether or not they let trans people play. 

These bans and restrictions have caused outrage among athletes, fans, and allies.

“It’s disappointing. We’re human beings the same as everyone else,” says Caroline Layt, a women’s rugby league player.  Many other athletes like Caroline Layt and Megan Rapinoe are speaking against the bans on trans athletes.

Photo courtesy of the International Rugby League on Facebook