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France Bans Hijabs for Athletes, Sparking Controversy

10/9/2025

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Summary

Story summary

France bans hijabs for athletes across sports, including during 2024 Paris Olympics.
A February bill prohibits religious symbols, including hijabs, in all sporting events.
Critics, including Amnesty International, say bans have no legitimate purpose and harm athletes' identities.
Helene Ba, former basketball player, condemns neutrality in sport, citing differentiations.
Nike and Haya are creating sports-specific hijabs to promote inclusivity.

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Story summary

France bans hijabs for athletes across sports, including during 2024 Paris Olympics.
A February bill prohibits religious symbols, including hijabs, in all sporting events.
Critics, including Amnesty International, say bans have no legitimate purpose and harm athletes' identities.
Helene Ba, former basketball player, condemns neutrality in sport, citing differentiations.
Nike and Haya are creating sports-specific hijabs to promote inclusivity.