France's Constitutional Council has upheld the ban on women football players wearing Islamic hijab headscarves, citing the need for neutrality and the smooth functioning of matches.
The decision comes after the French Football Federation (FFF) implemented a regulation prohibiting any signs or clothing that display political, philosophical, religious, or union affiliations during play. This contentious issue has been thrust into the political spotlight, with politicians arguing over the principles of secularism and raising concerns about its preservation.
The Constitutional Council defended its decision, stating, "Sporting federations...can impose a neutrality requirement on their players...to guarantee the smooth running of matches and any clashes or confrontation." The council deemed the FFF rule against clothing that shows affiliations as "appropriate and proportionate."
Challenging the FFF regulation, a group of Muslim women footballers, known as the "Hijabeuses," took legal action. However, judges faced political pressure ahead of the ruling, as mainstream parties sought to counter the rising influence of far-right politics in the country.
Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin, known for his tough stance on law and order, expressed his support for upholding neutrality on sports fields. He stated, "You shouldn't wear religious clothing when you play sports...when you play football, you don't need to know the religion of the person in front of you."
The issue of secularism is highly sensitive in France. Proponents argue that it ensures the state's religious neutrality, while critics contend that it disproportionately affects ethnic and religious minorities, particularly Muslims.
The ruling has sparked further political reactions. Marine Le Pen, leader of the far-right National Rally party, stated on Twitter, "No to the hijab in sport. And we will pass a law to make sure it is respected." Eric Ciotti, leader of the conservative Republicans party, suggested that his party would introduce legislation on the matter if the court had allowed the hijab.
Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera indicated that the government of President Emmanuel Macron may consider legislation, stating, "we aren't ruling anything out" and acknowledging the need for clarification.
The Constitutional Council itself responded to the criticisms, warning that questioning the workings of the courts amounted to an "attack on an institution that is essential for democracy." The council further stated that it would take legal action against insults, defamation, incitement to hatred, or threats directed at its administrative branch and legal advisor.
The ban on hijabs in women's football in France continues to fuel debates on secularism, religious freedom, and the treatment of ethnic and religious minorities. The decision by the Constitutional Council has once again thrust these contentious issues into the spotlight, prompting discussions about the future of religious expression in sports.
(With inputs from AFP)
