FIFA 23 Introduces First Character with a Hijab, Honoring Morocco's Nouhaïla Benzina

For the first time in FIFA's gaming history, FIFA 23 has introduced a character who dons a hijab, marking a significant progression in the series.

The credit goes to Morocco's Nouhaïla Benzina, who created a tectonic shift in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup by becoming the first player to participate in a World Cup match while wearing the iconic Islamic headgear.

EA, recognizing this historical event, has brought it to life in their FIFA 23 gaming universe by meticulously grooming Benzina's player model to include a hijab.

The update explicitly highlights this development. EA calls attention to how they have "enhanced Nouhaïla Benzina’s player model to encompass her head covering."

Soccer, in real life, has only recently embraced the hijab. Previously, FIFA had prohibited its use due to potential safety concerns related to head or neck injuries. However, this stance changed in March 2014, making way for players to wear head coverings for religious purposes.

When it comes to the representation of women in the FIFA series, FIFA 16 served as a pioneer by featuring women’s national teams for the first time.

FIFA 23 took it a step further by introducing women’s club teams, such as the Barclays Women’s Super League in England and the D1 Arkema in France.

In a groundbreaking move, the upcoming EA Sports FC 24 plans to include women in the series’ thriving Ultimate Team mode, where players can curate teams that incorporate both male and female players for the first time.