Trans Women Barred from Competing in Female Darts Tournaments

The Darts Regulation Authority has announced that, following an extensive review and consultation, it will only permit individuals assigned female at birth to participate in women's darts tournaments. This decision, which takes effect on April 5, 2026, is based on a report by Dr. Emma Hilton, a developmental biologist, who found that darts is a 'gender-affected sport' and that multiple physical differences contribute to superior scoring among male players. Transgender female player Noa-Lynn van Leuven, who has won six titles on the women's tour and was the first trans woman to compete in the World Championships, has expressed disappointment and frustration with the decision, describing it as a significant setback for the trans community. The DRA has stated that it aims to be inclusive and welcomes all players, including transgender individuals, to compete in open tournaments.