“It makes the field too unfair”: British women against the inclusion of transsexuals in women’s competitions – Sports

British athletes admit they do not feel comfortable with the inclusion of transgender women in women’s competitions, but they fear that giving their opinion could be seen as discriminatory. A recent BBC study revealed some of the concerns of women in sport, having addressed the integration of transgender athletes in competitions.

In recent years, several sports have banned transgender women from competing in women’s sports due to some criticism. A BBC received responses from 143 women from 28 sports on the topic.

In total, 104 athletes said they felt “uncomfortable” or “very uncomfortable” with the fact that transgender women were included in women’s competitions. Only 11 said they felt comfortable or very comfortable.

According to research data, athletes are concerned that the inclusion of transgender women in women’s competitions could create unfair situations. Some suggest that creating competitions for ‘trans’ athletes could be the appropriate solution.

“It makes the playing field too unfair, regardless of the sport in which you compete”, reads one of the responses obtained in the study.

Despite feeling uncomfortable, most athletes reveal that they would not speak openly about the subject, as it raises controversy. “Your career is over if you speak out on the matter,” said one of the respondents.