Cantabria Excludes Trans Women from Elite Sports: A Step Backwards for Inclusivity

In a move that has sparked outrage across the LGBTQIA+ community, the parliament of Cantabria, Spain, has voted to exclude trans women from competing in women’s elite sports categories. T

he decision, driven by a proposal from the far-right party Vox, passed with support from the Popular Party (PP) and the Regionalist Party of Cantabria (PRC). The Socialist Party (PSOE) stood alone in opposing the measure, denouncing Vox’s rhetoric as reminiscent of Donald Trump’s anti-trans policies.

The controversial proposition comes during the International Day Against LGBTQIA+ Phobia in Sports, a moment meant to promote inclusion and diversity in athletic spaces. Vox defended the measure by citing what they claim are “numerous studies” suggesting trans women have biological advantages. Leticia Díaz, Vox’s spokesperson, asserted that “men are between 50% and 60% stronger and 10% to 15% faster than women,” reinforcing harmful stereotypes that ignore the complex realities of gender identity and athletic performance.

The PP of Cantabria echoed this stance, referencing the Spanish Society of Medicine’s alleged position that trans women possess physical advantages due to anatomical differences. However, the PSOE refuted these claims, arguing that trans athletes’ participation has never been a concern in Cantabria. Mario Iglesias, a PSOE deputy and former sports director, emphasized that during his four-year tenure, there were no complaints regarding trans athletes in local sports.

This legislative decision has galvanized the LGBTQIA+ community in Cantabria. The local organization ALEGA (Association of Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, Trans, Intersex, and more of Cantabria) has called for a protest outside the parliament on Friday, February 21. Their goal: to voice their indignation and affirm that Cantabrian society rejects LGBTQIA+ phobia in sports.

At KET.brussels, we stand in solidarity with our queer siblings in Spain. Inclusion is not a privilege—it’s a fundamental right. Restricting trans athletes’ participation reinforces stigma and exclusion, undermining the progress made toward equal opportunities in sports. As we continue to fight for LGBTQIA+ rights across Europe, we remain committed to amplifying voices that champion equality, dignity, and respect for all.

This story originally appeared in Shangay magazine in Spain and is republished by KET.brussels as part of its membership in ELMA, the European LGBTQIA+ Media Association.