Athletes frustrated as France plans Muslim headscarf ban in sport

French Muslim athletes are facing potential exclusion as the government considers a new law to ban the hijab in sports, which critics argue deepens discrimination, The New Arab reported.

France’s secular system already prohibits civil servants, teachers, students, and athletes representing the country abroad from wearing visible religious symbols, such as the hijab, Christian cross, Jewish kippah, or Sikh turban. While individual sports federations currently decide whether to allow the hijab in domestic competitions, the proposed legislation would ban it nationwide in both professional and amateur sports.

Supporters claim this would unify regulations, strengthen secularism, and combat extremism, but opponents view it as another discriminatory measure targeting visibly Muslim women. The bill passed the Senate in February and is set for a vote in the lower house of parliament. Critics, including French Olympic judo champion Teddy Riner, argue that France should focus on equality rather than targeting a single religion.

Meanwhile, athletes like Sylvie Eberena, a Muslim weightlifter and national champion, fear losing the opportunity to compete. The debate highlights broader tensions around secularism and religious freedom in France, with some accusing the government of weaponizing secularism against Muslims.