England hockey bans transgender women from female competitions

England Hockey has announced it will prohibit biological men who identify as women from competing in its female category from the start of the next season.

Under its updated policy, there will be two competition categories: female and open. The change follows a review launched in July 2023, guided by the Sports Councils' Equality Group (SCEG), and will take effect on 1 September.

England Hockey explained that the decision is based on evidence highlighting the importance of physical capabilities, such as strength and speed, in hockey. The sport is considered "gender-affected" and requires fair competition.

Other sports have implemented similar measures. In December, the Lawn Tennis Association banned trans-identifying males from certain female tennis and padel tournaments.

The LPGA Golf Tour has excluded men who identify as trans who have gone through puberty, and the England and Wales Cricket Board will introduce restrictions this year.

Policies banning trans-identifying athletes from elite women’s competitions have also been adopted by athletics, cycling, and swimming governing bodies.