‘EuroGames for everyone!’ Trans footballer Natalie Washington flags up FLINTA categories at Cardiff 2027
More than 1,000 athletes have already registered for EuroGames Cardiff 2027; UK’s first-ever multi-sport event for LGBTQ people and allies is a trans-inclusive positive action initiative; award-winning campaigner Natalie Washington is looking forward to playing in the FLINTA 7-a-side tournament next summer…
LGBTQ-inclusive sports clubs and teams from across Europe and beyond are being encouraged to start their journey towards EuroGames Cardiff 2027.
The award-winning campaigner Natalie Washington is among more than 1,000 athletes who have already signed up to take part, having registered with a group of friends to play in the 7-a-side football tournament.
The multi-sport event in the capital of Wales next summer will make history as the first held in the U.K. to be specifically created for LGBTQ people and their allies.
Washington and her teammates are gearing up to take to the pitch in the FLINTA category.
The lead for the Football v Transphobia campaign, who won an EGLSF Advocacy Award last year, is also assisting the Cardiff 2027 committee in its efforts to make this upcoming edition of EuroGames the most inclusive ever.
She says: “I’m excited for next summer, and proud to be part of a team that’s working hard to make the event truly welcoming for all trans+ people.”
What is FLINTA?
A core element of EuroGames Cardiff 2027’s commitment to inclusion is its dedicated FLINTA category.
FLINTA stands for Frauen (German for women), Lesbian, Intersex, Non-binary, Trans, and Agender.
By offering FLINTA categories across various sports, EuroGames is seeking to create safe environments in which everyone can participate as their true selves.
For Washington, the focus on genuine inclusion and empowerment is what will make EuroGames 2027 extra special.
“Alongside the FLINTA category, and the inclusive facilities that will be used, the organisers are committed to using venues and spaces in which everyone will be safe and free to be themselves,” she added.
As a trans-inclusive positive action initiative, the event is designed to serve the global LGBTQ and allies community in sports, both to participate and to party.
By sharing her extensive experience and expertise, Washington is playing a key role in helping the Cardiff 2027 team build an unforgettable experience in Wales.
Outreach support and accommodation deals also available
EuroGames 2027 organisers are also working to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent anyone from joining the celebration.
Applications are currently open for the Outreach Fund. This solidarity initiative offers financial aid, such as reduced or waived registration fees and subsidised accommodation, to help athletes who face economic, social, or structural barriers make it to Cardiff.
The deadline to submit applications for the Outreach Fund is October 31.
Meanwhile, for participants searching for budget-friendly places to stay, Cardiff University is offering a fantastic deal for EuroGames 2027 athletes.
Competitors can book en-suite single rooms with bed and breakfast for just £70 a night, located close to the city centre and the official EuroGames Village.
As registration numbers continue to climb, the momentum keeps building for what promises to be an unmissable sporting occasion from 14 to 17 July, 2027.
For more information, details on accommodation, or to start filling out the registration form, visit cardiffeurogames2027.com.
Further reading…
Darts referee Huw Ware named as EuroGames Cardiff 2027 ambassador (May 2026)
Registration up and running for EuroGames 2027, with thousands of athletes expected (May 2026)
EuroGames 2027 becomes first UK signatory of LGBTQ-inclusive sports charter (May 2026)
Targeting of trans and DSD athletes is why LGBTQ sports events like Gay Games and EuroGames exist (April 2026)
Jess Fishlock says EuroGames 2027 ambassadorial role is ‘important for visibility’ (BBC Sport, March 2026)
Olympic swimmer Dan Jervis ‘in awe’ of LGBTQ community and excited for EuroGames 2027 (June 2025)
To stay in the loop about EuroGames Cardiff 2027, sign up for email updates on the official website.
Interested in sponsorship and partnership opportunities? Email the team at info@eurogames2027.com
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