International Rugby League bars transwomen from women's international matches until policy is developed

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Transgender women will be barred from sanctioned women’s international rugby league matches "until further research is completed to enable the IRL to implement a formal transgender inclusion policy," the International Rugby League (IRL) said in a statement.

The IRL’s statement on transgender participation came after FINA, the international governing body on elite swimming, said it will only permit swimmers who transitioned before the age of 12 to compete in women’s events. FINA members voted 71.5% in favor of the new policies.

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A general view of Twickenham, home of England Rugby during the International match between England and Barbarians at Twickenham Stadium on June 19, 2022 in London, England. (CameraSport via Getty Images)

The IRL cited the International Olympic Committee’s 2021 publication "Framework on Fairness, Non-Discrimination and Inclusion on the Basis of Gender Identity and Sex Variations" in its decision-making.

"The IOC concluded that it is the remit of each sport and its governing body to determine how an athlete may be at a disproportionate advantage compared with their peers — taking into consideration the differing nature of each sport," the league said.

"In the interests of avoiding unnecessary welfare, legal and reputational risk to International Rugby League competitions, and those competing therein, the IRL believes there is a requirement and responsibility to further consult and complete additional research before finalizing its policy."

The IRL said it would continue to work on developing a policy that will be fair to everybody.

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