Muslim footballer banned from playing match in her tracksuit bottoms

Muslim football coach Iqra Ismail - (Instagram)

A Muslim women’s football coach was left close to tears after being prevented from playing in a match because she wears tracksuit bottoms rather than shorts.

Iqra Ismail, 24, says the clothing compromises her religious beliefs.

Ms Ismail, of west London, said the issue arose when she signed for Regent’s Park grassroots team United Dragons FC.

The refugee advocate - who captained Somalia in 2019 and established Hilltop FC - was expected to play her first game on Sunday against an east London team.

But she told the BBC: “I was warmed up, I was ready to go.

“I came on at half time and the referee told me that I wouldn't be able to play unless I was wearing shorts.

“I have been playing the same league for nearly five years wearing the same tracksuit bottoms and I’ve never worn shorts playing competitively.

“I told him that I wasn’t comfortable wearing shorts in any capacity.

“It was a shock to me that the referee took such a strong stance of it.

“I was very visibly upset as the game was going on, my teammates and the manager were very supportive. Everyone has been devastated.”

Ms Ismail, who has played since she was eight, insists she’s always worn a long sleeve top, team shirt, a sports hijab and tracksuit bottoms as well as shin pads and other necessary equipment.

She posted her story on Instagram and received support from drinks giant Lucozade and many in the game who added their support.

Anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out said: “We’re so sorry to hear this Iqra.

“Thanks to all those who have reported this to us.

“We have forwarded the reports received to the relevant authorities to ensure this is urgently investigated.”

A Football Association spokesman said: “We are aware of this matter and we are in contact with Middlesex FA to ensure that it is quickly resolved.

“We proactively wrote to all county FAs and match officials across the women’s grassroots game earlier this year to confirm that women and girls should be allowed to wear clothing that ensures their faith or religious beliefs are not compromised.

“We remain deeply committed to ensuring that English football is an inclusive and welcoming environment for everybody.”

The FA confirmed that they were in contact with Ms Ismail directly to provide support and to assure that they were working to resolve the matter.