Iqra Ismail, a Muslim dedicated football coach, community leader, and former captain of Somalia’s women’s football team, was benched.

Not for her abilities, but because she wears tracksuit bottoms instead of shorts—an adherence to her religious beliefs.

Iqra, who has played competitively for nearly five years while wearing tracksuit bottoms, was devastated to learn that her choice of clothing could exclude her from the game she loves.

Having recently joined United Dragons FC, a grassroots team in Regent’s Park, Iqra had expected her debut match to be smooth.

However, as she stepped onto the pitch, warmed up and ready to play,

The referee informed her she couldn’t participate unless she changed into shorts.

“It was a shock,” she shared. “I was visibly upset, but my teammates and manager stood by me. Everyone was devastated.”

Iqra’s journey with football began at the age of eight, and she’s always worn a long-sleeve top, sports hijab, and tracksuit bottoms for comfort and modesty.

Her attire hadn’t been an issue in the league before, but now it’s causing unexpected setbacks.

Despite guidelines from the Football Association (FA) advocating for leniency to accommodate players’ faith.

The Greater London Women’s Football League insisted on its uniform code, which restricts tracksuit bottoms to goalkeepers.

This inflexible stance echoes the barriers many women of similar beliefs face, often sidelining their talents in leagues they might otherwise join.

“I know many women who don’t play because they don’t feel comfortable wearing shorts,” Iqra explained.

Highlighting how such rules exclude capable players who prioritize their faith and passion.

As a coach and a refugee advocate, Iqra has worked tirelessly to create inclusive spaces.

Including hosting women-only, alcohol-free football events for Muslim women.

Iqra standing up for Muslim women in the game

Iqra is taking a firm stand for Muslim women in gaming.

Unapologetically asserting their rights and highlighting their importance in the industry

She’s saddened that this hard work is undermined by restrictive rules.

Determined to push for change, Iqra is now collaborating with the FA to address the league’s regulations.

Ultimately she hopes to influence the International Football Association Board to allow more flexible attire guidelines worldwide.

Iqra believes her stance goes beyond personal choice, representing a broader mission to allow athletes to honour their culture and faith on the field.

A spokesperson from the FA confirmed its support for inclusive clothing options, affirming that English football aims to be a welcoming space for all.