The governing body of the Japanese strategy game shogi has apologized for banning pregnant players from title matches around their due date. Officials say they will form a new policy after consulting with a panel of experts.
The Japan Shogi Association introduced the rule last April. It stated that pregnant players must be replaced if their due date falls within a certain period of any title matches in which they are scheduled to compete.
Officials announced last month that they would scrap some of the rule and strive to accommodate pregnant players. The decision came after Fukuma Kana, who holds six women's titles, requested a review.
The association commented on the issue at a news conference on Friday for the first time. Senior official Katagami Daisuke offered a deep apology and acknowledged there had been a lack of communication.
Fukuma lost a title competition by default in 2024, when she was pregnant and some of her requests to reschedule matches were not accepted. On Friday, Katagami said the association did all it could to rearrange as many matches as possible.
The association said it plans to compile new rules around pregnancy and childbirth after discussing the issue with a panel of experts and female shogi players. Officials plan to solicit opinions by the end of April.

Quiz 1:
When did the Japan Shogi Association introduce the rule banning pregnant players from title matches?
A. Last month
B. Last April
C. In 2024
D. By the end of April

Quiz 2:
What prompted the Japan Shogi Association to reconsider the rule regarding pregnant players?
A. A news conference held on Friday
B. A deep apology from Katagami Daisuke
C. A request for review from Fukuma Kana
D. A plan to compile new rules

Quiz 3:
What is the Japan Shogi Association planning to do regarding the controversial rule?
A. Form a new policy after consulting with experts
B. Solicit opinions by the end of January
C. Immediately reinstate the previous rule
D. Offer another deep apology



[Answer block]
Answers:
Quiz 1: B
Quiz 2: C
Quiz 3: A