Published：Jun 18, 16:00Last updated：Jun 22, 15:52

Tori Penso Makes History as First Female World Cup Referee

Jun. 18, 2026 16:00

Tori Penso, a 39-year-old mother and former marketing executive, will make history as the first female referee at the 2026 World Cup. Penso, who began her refereeing career at 14, has broken barriers in MLS and international football. Her appointment reflects progress in gender equality in sports officiating.

Summarized

8News

5Media

Jun. 22, 2026 15:45

FIFA has appointed two women as head referees for third-round matches of the 2026 World Cup group stage.

Jun. 22, 2026 15:52

FIFA appointed two women as lead referees for the third round of the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the US. The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, marking a milestone in gender equality in sports officiating.

Tori Penso, a 39-year-old American referee and mother of three, has made history as the first female head referee at the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico. Her groundbreaking appointment marks a significant milestone in gender equality in sports officiating, reflecting FIFA's commitment to diversifying refereeing roles in international football.

🏆 Historic Appointment

Penso became the second woman to referee a men's World Cup match, officiating the Group A clash between Czech Republic and South Africa, which ended in a 1-1 draw. The entire referee team for the match was female, further emphasizing the progress in breaking gender barriers in football officiating. Penso's performance was widely praised, with former Bundesliga referee Patrick Ittrich commending her handling of players.China.org+2

🌟 Career Milestones

Penso began her refereeing career at 14 and transitioned to full-time officiating after the 2019 Women's World Cup. Her journey from a marketing executive to a trailblazing referee highlights her dedication to the sport. Bibiana Steinhaus, a former referee, praised Penso, calling her a "great woman" and possibly ahead of her time.China.org+2

⚽ Second Assignment

FIFA appointed Penso for her second assignment in the tournament, where she will officiate Germany's third group match on June 22, 2026. This marks another historic moment, as FIFA has also appointed another woman as a head referee for the third-round matches, further solidifying the organization's push for gender equality in football officiating.Süddeutsche Zeitung+2

FIFATori PensoSouth AfricaCzech RepublicBibiana Steinhaus