FA apologises to Muslim player barred from match over religious beliefs

The Football Association (FA) has issued an apology to Iqra Ismail, a Muslim footballer who was barred from participating in a match due to her refusal to wear shorts based on her religious beliefs.

Ismail was set to join her team, United Dragons, as a half-time substitute during a fixture in the Greater London Women’s Football League against Tower Hamlets when the referee stopped her from entering the field.

The incident has raised concerns regarding inclusivity in women's football. For nearly five years, Ismail has played in this league while wearing tracksuit bottoms, but this season, she encountered new restrictions that prevented her from doing so.

The referee reportedly indicated that the league had mandated that players like Ismail could not wear tracksuit bottoms, regardless of their match kit’s colour.

In response, a spokesperson for the FA confirmed awareness of the situation and stated they are working closely with Middlesex FA to resolve it promptly. Earlier this year, the FA communicated to all county FAs and match officials that women and girls should be permitted to wear clothing that aligns with their faith or religious beliefs.

The FA reiterated its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment in English football. This incident has sparked broader discussions about diversity in women's football, highlighting the barriers that prevent players from different backgrounds from participating fully.