International Rugby League Bans Transgender Athletes To Avoid Welfare Risks

On the 21st of June, Tuesday, the International Rugby League (IRL) announced to ban transgender women players from taking part in rugby league matches.

According to sources, the move was announced as a major setback especially when a number of sports are considering the inclusion of transgender athletes. In an official statement, the IRL said, “Until further research is completed to enable the IRL to implement a formal transgender inclusion policy, male-to-female (transwomen) players are unable to play in sanctioned women’s international rugby league matches. In reaching this position, the IRL, which last reviewed transgender participation in the international rugby league in January-February 2021, considered several relevant developments in world sport. The statement further said, " In the interests of avoiding unnecessary welfare, the legal and reputational risk to International Rugby League competitions, and those competing therein, the IRL believes there is a requirement and responsibility to further consult and complete additional research before finalizing its policy. The IRL reaffirms its belief that rugby league is a game for all and that anyone and everyone can play our sport".

The IRL in its statement said about working with the eight Women’s Rugby League World Cup 2021 finalists (Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Cook Islands, England, France, Canada, and Brazil) and obtain data and develop criteria for future transwomen inclusion policy in 2023.

The move of the IRL came a day after the Fédération Internationale de Natation (FINA) Swimming Association announced to ban trans women, from participating in swimming championships. The FINA announced the move on the 19th of June.

After FINA, now the IRL also announced the same and said it was in the view of the welfare and health risks of athletes.