Trump Signs Executive Order Banning Transgender Participation in Women’s Sports

On February 5, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order prohibiting transgender athletes from participating in women’s sports within educational institutions. The move, aimed at preserving what Trump calls "the integrity of women’s sports," was announced during a ceremonial signing event in the East Room of the White House.

The event was a spectacle, with Trump surrounded by girls and young women from various educational institutions who were invited to witness the signing. The executive order was signed on the National Girls and Women in Sports Day, which is celebrated in the first week of February across the United States.

"From now on, women’s sports will be for women only," Trump declared. "If there are any loopholes, we will close them with additional executive actions," he added.

Plans for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics

Trump also pledged to ensure that transgender athletes would not compete in women’s events at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. "We will not allow this, and no one will be able to stop us," Trump said, doubling down on his administration’s stance.

Federal Enforcement Through Title IX

The executive order directs the Department of Education to notify schools and colleges that allowing students assigned male at birth to compete in women’s sports could be considered a violation of Title IX—the federal law prohibiting gender-based discrimination in educational programs. Institutions found in violation of this order risk losing federal funding.

The administration also aims to extend these rules beyond educational settings, encouraging other sports associations to adopt similar policies. Additionally, the State Department will be tasked with reviewing visas for athletes entering the U.S. to ensure that individuals born male are not competing in women’s categories, according to Interfax.

Trump’s order has already sparked controversy, with opponents criticizing it as discriminatory and harmful to transgender individuals. Supporters, however, argue that it protects fair competition and opportunities for female athletes. As the debate unfolds, the order is expected to face legal challenges from civil rights groups advocating for transgender inclusion.

Stay updated with News of Israel as the story develops.