DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN IN SOCCER: CHALLENGES AND ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE PURSUIT OF GENDER EQUALITY IN SPORT

Abstract

Soccer, widely recognized as a sociocultural and economic phenomenon in Brazil, was historically constructed as a domain of masculine hegemony, subjecting women's practice to a prolonged history of prohibition and marginalization. This study analyzes the discrimination faced by women in soccer, investigating the sociocultural, institutional, and economic barriers that perpetuate gender inequality in the sport, as well as the legal milestones and achievements toward equity. The theoretical framework is grounded in Physical Education and sports management, examining the impacts of Decree-Law No. 3,199/1941 and Resolution No. 7/1965 of the National Sports Council (CND), which banned women's soccer for nearly four decades under eugenic premises and the alleged protection of "female nature." It is highlighted that this state prohibition created a structural gap in athletic development, leading to severe deficits in motor literacy, tactical-cognitive progression, and youth academy development. Methodologically, this study relies on a qualitative, exploratory-descriptive literature and document review, incorporating legislation, official governing body reports (FIFA and CBF), and specialized academic literature. Results indicate that despite recent normative and institutional progress — such as the revocation of bans, club licensing requirements, and increased media visibility —, women's soccer still faces persistent structural hurdles. These include inadequate club infrastructure, a lack of sex-specific scientific training periodization, high injury rates without preventive athletic training support, and precarious labor conditions. The study concludes that achieving true gender equality in sports requires moving beyond purely bureaucratic compliance, demanding sustained financial investment, targeted public policies for youth development, and a profound sociocultural transformation.