Introduction <p>Transgender inclusion in physical education and sports (PES) is a critical issue, reflecting persistent societal and institutional barriers. This study aims to analyse public stigma towards trans people among PES professionals in Colombia according to socio-political (gender, sexual orientation, religious affiliation and political preference) and sport-related variables (PES professional role, sport participation and competitive sport involvement).</p> Methods <p>A total of 1,943 participants, including university students and teachers of PES, as well as sports professionals, completed the Spanish version of the Transgender Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs (T-KAB) scale through an online survey administered between October 2021 and May 2022. Non-parametric tests (Mann–Whitney U and Kruskal–Wallis) were conducted to analyse group differences.</p> Results <p>Results indicate that women, homosexuals, left-wing, non-religious participants, teachers, and individuals not engaged in sport or competitive activities, reported more inclusive responses. In contrast, men, heterosexuals, religious, right-wing individuals, university students, and those involved in sport participation and competition, expressed more negative responses.</p> Conclusions <p>The study underscores the need for critical pedagogical approaches, inclusive curricular reforms, and institutional policies to address cisnormative norms within PES settings.</p> Policy implications <p>This study informs the importance of equipping PES professionals through robust initial preparation and continuing professional development, supported by institution-wide policies that explicitly challenge cisnormativity such as gender-affirmation protocols and inclusive curricula, in order to reduce public stigma and cultivate safer and more inclusive environments.</p>