This rather lenient approach is by no means a surprise given the British mentality regarding extra-European immigration. British society not only tolerates many codes and customs from foreign cultures but even embraces them in the public sphere. One example of this is the fact that sikh policemen are allowed to wear their traditional pagris while on service.
Outside of football, a similar approach has long been taken in the NBA, where Australian star Kyrie Irving openly observes Ramadan, fasting from sunrise to sunset while continuing to perform at an elite level.
The French, Secular Approach
In stark contrast, the French Football Federation (FFF) has refused to grant similar allowances, citing the country’s strict adherence to the principle of laïcité (secularism). The FFF maintains that football should remain neutral and free of religious influence. This stance aligns with France’s broader policy of keeping religious expression out of public institutions, including sports. This decision comes even though Ligue 1 and the French national team feature a substantial number of Muslim players.
Around 30–35% of professional footballers in Ligue 1 identify as Muslim, reflecting France’s broader demographics, where approximately 10% of the population follows Islam (INED, 2023). [STAT]
The French national team, which won the 2018 World Cup, included key Muslim players such as Karim Benzema, Paul Pogba or N’Golo Kanté. Yet, despite this significant representation, the FFF remains committed to its secular policy, creating tensions between the federation and its Muslim athletes.
How Do Other European Leagues Handle Ramadan?
Beyond England and France, other major European football leagues have developed their own policies regarding Ramadan observance.
The German Football Association does not have a formal rule on Ramadan breaks, but many clubs allow fasting players to manage their schedules privately. Given Germany’s large Turkish diaspora—many of whom are more secular than other Muslim communities—fasting remains an individual choice rather than a league-wide issue.
The Spanish league, in turn, has a relatively low number of practicing Muslim players, and clubs typically deal with the matter on a case-by-case basis. Unlike the Premier League, there is no official policy on Ramadan breaks, but teams like Real Madrid and FC Barcelona find an optimal formula for their Muslim players. A similar situation can be observed in Italy’s Serie A.
A Future Shaped by Demographics and Cultural Assertiveness
In the last two decades, the Islamic World has exerted a growing influence over the world’s most popular sport. The hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and the ever increasing popularity of the Saudi league (due in large part to the purchase of legends such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar) suggests that Western leagues will face growing pressure to adapt their policies.
And with Saudi Arabia investing heavily in football as it attracts major European stars, religious accommodations may become a more pressing issue for leagues looking to expand their global appeal.
Statement
The intersection of professional football and religious observance has ignited debates across Europe, particularly concerning accommodations for Muslim players during Ramadan. In England, the Premier League has adopted a flexible approach, allowing brief pauses for players to break their fast, reflecting the league's inclusivity and the significant presence of Muslim athletes. Conversely, France's Football Federation upholds strict secularism, denying such allowances despite a substantial Muslim representation in Ligue 1. This divergence highlights broader societal tensions between secular policies and the integration of diverse cultural practices within public spheres. As Europe's demographics evolve, the balance between tradition and inclusivity in sports continues to prompt complex discussions.
