Iqra Ismail, a 24-year-old Muslim footballer from northwest London, was barred from playing in her debut game with United Dragons in the Greater London Women’s League after the referee deemed her trousers non-compliant with league rules.
Despite the fact that the same referee had previously allowed Ismail to play in similar attire for two other games, she was prevented from joining the match.
After the decision, her teammates showed their support and voiced frustration with the official’s call, while Ismail expressed feeling like she was delaying the game.
Ismail, a longtime player in grassroots football with teams such as Headstone Manor and Hilltop FC, had previously worn tracksuit bottoms without any issues.
The Greater London Women’s League had contacted her in March 2024 regarding her kit, but the matter had appeared to be resolved, as she and her team had been allowed to wear trousers in subsequent matches.
The recent ban, however, forced her to leave the pitch, and an emotional Ismail ultimately decided to sit out, feeling isolated and frustrated by the lack of flexibility.
Ismail has made significant contributions to promoting diversity and inclusion in football, having been named in Forbes’ ’30 Under 30′ list in 2019 and honored with a Football Black List Award that same year.
As a coordinator for QPR’s Community Trust, she continues her work toward making football accessible for women from all backgrounds, organizing weekly matches and events focused on Muslim women’s inclusion in sports.
Reflecting on the incident, Ismail expressed that such actions deter diversity within women’s football. “They asked me why women’s football lacks diversity, and things like this are the reason,” she said in a video shared on social media, adding that her role is to advocate for women like her.
A spokesperson for the FA acknowledged the situation, confirming they are in touch with the Middlesex FA to investigate further. “Earlier this year, we proactively informed County FAs and match officials across women’s grassroots football to ensure women and girls are allowed to wear faith-compliant clothing. We are deeply committed to making English football inclusive for everyone.”
Ismail has expressed gratitude for the support she’s received as she continues her work to break down barriers and create a welcoming space for Muslim women in the sport.
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