Two female soccer players, Alex Alcaide Llanos and Nil Alcon Labella, who are part of Club Esportiu Europa B, a women’s team in Barcelona, have stirred up controversy due to their masculine facial hair. The team has claimed that they are experiencing “violence” and “fascism” as a result. Multiple sources have confirmed that both players are biologically female, but are currently undergoing gender transitions, making them ineligible to play in men’s soccer.
From a young age, Alex expressed a desire to be a boy. Both players have fully grown facial hair, likely due to testosterone treatments. Images of the players can be found on the team’s website. A 2022 Beteve article shows Alex without any facial hair, indicating the changes that have occurred over time.
The players’ appearance has caused confusion and controversy, particularly after a recent 3-1 victory over Terrassa. Alicia Tomas, a councilor from the conservative Vox party, referred to the players as “two guys with beards who consider themselves women.” Tomas argued that it is unfair for individuals undergoing male hormone therapy to participate in women’s competitions, and accused institutions of perpetrating “violence against women.”
Alex responded to the criticism by stating, “As long as my ID card still has the F for female, I’m playing in the category that corresponds to me.” Alex also shared that the desire to be a boy was clear from an early age and that the transition process began early. Alex emphasized that the hormone treatments help build muscle faster, not more muscle, and promised to step aside if ever feeling superior or advantaged.
Club Esportiu Europa B has stood by its players, emphasizing its commitment to “sportsmanship,” “fair play,” and “compliance with current sports regulation.” The team likened the criticisms to violence and fascism, and asserted its commitment to fighting for people’s right to live free from all forms of violence. The team stated, “Combating hate crimes and transferable violence is a collective duty that challenges us throughout society.”
Despite the controversy, the team continues to support its players. The team coordinator, Nany Haces, spoke about Alex’s development as a player, highlighting technical shortcomings but also noting speed as a strength. Despite the players’ identification as female, the team refers to them using male pronouns.