Transgender Women Barred from Female Darts Competitions

The Darts Regulation Authority (DRA) has announced a significant change in its policy, stating that only biological females will be eligible to participate in women's darts tournaments. This decision follows a comprehensive review of the DRA's Trans and Gender Diverse Policy, which included a report by a developmental biologist and consideration of extensive legal advice and recent UK court rulings. As a result, the DRA has replaced its Trans and Gender Diverse Policy with a new Eligibility Policy and Rules for open and women's tournaments, effective April 5, 2026. The new policy aims to promote fair competition in darts, while also ensuring inclusivity for all players. Transgender athletes will still be allowed to compete in open tournaments. Noa-Lynn van Leuven, a prominent transgender darts player, has expressed her disappointment and frustration with the decision, describing it as a significant setback for the trans community. The DRA will continue to monitor developments in relation to transgender participation in sports and review its Eligibility Policy annually.