Who is eligible to play in women's and girls' contact rugby?

Under the RFU Gender Participation Policy (adopted July 2022, updated July 2025), which applies to anyone playing contact rugby in England:

• Only players whose sex was recorded as female at birth may play in the female category of contact rugby, at any level.
• Trans women and girls (recorded male at birth) can only play contact rugby in the male category. They can also take part through non-contact formats, coaching, refereeing and volunteering.
• Players recorded female at birth who have started testosterone are no longer eligible for female contact rugby.

The RFU based the policy on research showing that strength, stamina and physique advantages from male puberty are significant and are retained even after testosterone suppression, and concluded that inclusion in female contact rugby can't be balanced against safety and fairness.

On match day:

• A player's gender identity can't be assumed, and it isn't the referee's job to query it. If concerns are raised before kick-off, the referee will ask for them to be reported after the match.
• Report concerns after the match through RFU Speak Up or genderparticipation@rfu.com. The RFU investigates confidentially; it isn't for individuals to police the policy.
• Clubs must make sure their players comply, and a coach unsure whether a player is eligible should not play them until eligibility is confirmed. Breaches can lead to disciplinary action.