France's Constitutional Council has upheld the ban on women football players wearing Islamic hijab headscarves, citing the need for neutrality and the smooth functioning of matches.
The decision comes after the French Football Federation (FFF) implemented a regulation prohibiting any signs or clothing that display political, philosophical, religious, or union affiliations during play. This contentious issue has been thrust into the political spotlight, with politicians arguing over the principles of secularism and raising concerns about its preservation.