Trans Women Barred from Female Darts Competitions

The Darts Regulation Authority has introduced a new policy stating that only individuals assigned female at birth can participate in women's darts tournaments. This decision follows a thorough review of the authority'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 previous policy with an Eligibility Policy and Rules for open and women's tournaments, effective April 5, 2026. Transgender players, including Noa-Lynn van Leuven, the first transgender woman to compete in the World Championships in 2024, will no longer be allowed to participate in women's events but can continue to compete in open tournaments. The DRA claims to be inclusive and encourages all players to participate in open tournaments, regardless of their biological sex, legal sex, or gender identity. Van Leuven has expressed her disappointment and frustration with the decision, stating that it is 'another huge hit for the trans community' and that she has been 'retired' against her will. The DRA will continue to monitor developments in transgender participation in sports and review its Eligibility Policy annually.