French Court Upholds Ban on Hijabs in Women’s Football Matches

The Hijabeuses movement had filed an appeal to challenge this restriction established by Article 1 of the FFF regulations. Formed in May 2020 by the Alliance citoyenne association, the group has been fighting for several years to change the federation’s rules.

In this case, the Council of State decided not to follow the opinion of its public rapporteur, who had shown support earlier this week for allowing the wearing of the veil. In justifying its decision, the highest administrative court referred to the principle of neutrality, indicating that sports federations, which are in charge of a public service, have the possibility of requiring clothing neutrality to ensure the smooth running of competitions and prevent any confrontation. Contrary to FIFA, which allows the wearing of the hijab, the FFF continues to prohibit it.

In reaction to the Council of State’s decision, the FFF expressed its support through a press release, reiterating its commitment to the republican and civic values of football, and its determination to fight against all forms of discrimination. Gérald Darmanin, the Minister of the Interior, also expressed his disagreement with the possibility of authorizing the wearing of the hijab, stressing that it would represent a significant breach of the republican pact.