France’s proposed bill to ban the hijab in all sports competitions has sparked strong criticism from Muslim athletes, rights groups, and political opponents. The "Law on Secularism in Sport," passed by the Senate in February, seeks to prohibit religious symbols, including the hijab, during sports events and in public spaces like swimming pools.

The bill, backed by Prime Minister François Bayrou and other government officials, is presented as a way to combat "Islamism". However, many athletes and activists argue that it unfairly targets Muslim women, denying them the right to participate in sports while wearing religious attire.

Weightlifting champion Sylvie Eberena, who wears the hijab, fears the ban will limit opportunities for Muslim women in sports and could push her to leave France. Basketball player Assia Verhoeven, who has already faced a hijab ban in basketball since 2022, shares similar concerns, saying the bill will hinder her career.

Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have condemned the bill as discriminatory, claiming it violates human rights and fuels Islamophobia. Critics argue it will further marginalize Muslim women, limiting their freedom to practice their religion in public.

As the bill heads for a parliamentary vote, many worry about its impact on Muslim women’s participation in both sports and broader society.