Skate Canada Cancels Events in Alberta Over Transgender Law

Skate Canada has announced the cancellation of national and international-level events in Alberta due to the province’s new law restricting transgender athletes from participating in female-only sports. This decision follows a thorough evaluation of the Fairness and Safety in Sport Act, which took effect on September 1, 2023, and prohibits transgender individuals aged 12 and older from competing in female amateur sports.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Skate Canada expressed its commitment to maintaining national standards for safe and inclusive sports. The organization stated, “Following a careful assessment of Alberta’s Fairness and Safety in Sport Act, Skate Canada has determined that we are unable to host events in the province while maintaining our national standards for safe and inclusive sport.”

The cancellation specifically impacts national and international events, but it does not prevent Alberta athletes from participating in Skate Canada programs and competitions. Currently, no upcoming national or international events are scheduled to be hosted in Alberta, marking a significant shift in the province’s sporting landscape.

Calgary recently hosted the 2025-26 Skate Canada Challenge from November 27-30, 2025, and was the site of the 2024 National Championships. The decision to cancel future events reflects ongoing tensions surrounding the Fairness and Safety in Sport Act, one of three laws introduced last year by the United Conservative Party government under Premier Danielle Smith.

This legislation has sparked significant debate across the country. Proponents argue that it ensures fairness in sports, allowing girls to compete without facing competitors who may have biological advantages. Critics, however, view it as a stigmatization of the transgender community, asserting that it punishes individuals based on their gender identity.

Notably, the Alberta government has provided a carve-out for out-of-province transgender competitors, stating that it lacks the authority to regulate athletes from different jurisdictions. This exception allows sporting organizations bound by out-of-province or international guidelines to operate without the restrictions imposed by the Fairness and Safety in Sport Act.

Skate Canada has indicated that it will continue to monitor legislative developments in Alberta and reassess its hosting opportunities as the situation evolves. As the organization navigates this complex landscape, its commitment to inclusivity and safety in sports remains a priority.

This report by The Canadian Press highlights the ongoing impact of legislative changes on sports events and the broader implications for athletes across the country.