Views /Opinion

Premier League breaks ground with new rules for Muslim players

In a historic move, the Premier League recently enhanced its inclusivity credentials by instructing referees in the top two professional football leagues in England to pause matches during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. This decision, aimed at allowing Muslim players to break their fast, marks a milestone in recognizing and accommodating the religious practices of athletes.

With an estimated 250 Muslim players currently active in first teams and academies across the top four English football leagues, the decision holds immense importance. Thanks to the Premier League, star players such as Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Manchester City’s Riyad Mahrez, and Chelsea’s Hakim Ziyech are now able to observe their religious obligations while continuing to excel on the sports field.

Commenting on the significance of the decision, Dr. Kamilla Swart-Arries, Associate Professor and Director: Sport and Entertainment Management at Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s College of Science and Engineering said: “The Premier League’s move to pause matches and accommodate Muslim players during Ramadan underscores the importance of recognizing and promoting inclusivity and diversity in sport.”

By allowing match interruptions, the Premier League and the second tier of English football acknowledge the devotion and commitment of Muslim players during the month of Ramadan. The decision not only ensures their physical well-being but also fosters an environment that respects their religious beliefs and promotes a sense of belonging within their respective teams. Players can perform at their best without risking their health and promptly gaining access to food and water upon breaking their fast.

For fans, this decision reflects a message of tolerance and inclusion, contributing to the promotion of a more diverse and welcoming football community. It also presents an opportunity for supporters to deepen their understanding of Ramadan and gain insights into the cultural and religious practices of their favorite Muslim players.

While the impact on commercial sponsors may be minimal, this decision can nevertheless be viewed as a positive step towards projecting a more inclusive and diverse image for their brands. By aligning with the Premier League’s reputation as a socially responsible organization that supports cultural and religious diversity, sponsors may enhance their reach and appeal to wider audiences.

Not all national football associations are on the same page, with the French Football Federation (FFF) announcing that it would prohibit match interruptions for Muslim players. The FFF’s decision is based on regulations that specifically assert a strict respect for the principle of secularism in football.

“While both the United Kingdom and France value freedom of belief, they have different interpretations of how this should be expressed in public life. In France, the strict separation of church and state is seen as a cornerstone of democracy and equality, while there is a greater emphasis on accommodating religious diversity and allowing individuals to freely express their beliefs as long as it does not impinge on the rights of others or violate existing UK laws,” added Dr. Swart-Arries.

“It’s important to note that these are generalizations and there are of course differing views and debates within each country on the appropriate balance between religion and secularism.” Irrespective of such differences, the Premier League’s introduction of match interruptions during Ramadan is not only a testament to its gradual evolution into a truly global sporting brand, but also signifies its commitment to addressing the needs and beliefs of Muslim athletes within the sport. It sets a new standard for inclusivity, one that other leagues and sporting bodies should follow.

As the Premier League continues its efforts to expand its presence in the Arab world, through partnerships with Arab companies, and initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion, it aims to cater to diverse audiences while still addressing sporting concerns. By striking a balance between inclusivity and the essence of the game, the Premier League seeks to create an environment where all players can thrive, regardless of their religious background.