First ever all-female referee team to take charge as 2022 World Cup makes history
Some would say it is a decision that is long overdue, as FIFA announce the officials for the crucial Costa Rica-Germany group game.
Given some of the off-field discussions surrounding the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, it is maybe ironic that Stephanie Frappart, Neuza Back and Karen Diaz have been named to officiate the Costa Rica-Germany Group E match on Thursday. With this they become the first all-female refereeing team for a men’s World Cup match, FIFA announced on Tuesday.
History is set to be made on Thursday! 🤩
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 30, 2022
There will be an all-female refereeing trio taking charge for the first time at a men's #FIFAWorldCup in the match between Costa Rica and Germany.
Referee Stéphanie Frappart will be joined by assistants Neuza Back and Karen Diaz. 👏 pic.twitter.com/fgHfh2DICK
Women in control of Costa Rica vs Germany
Frappart, who was the fourth official for Poland’s Group C match against Mexico last week, will be the main referee, marking another milestone after becoming the first female to officiate at a men’s World Cup qualifier in March and a Champions League match in 2020.
Assisting the 38-year-old Frenchwoman will be Brazilian Neuza and Mexican Diaz.
Fellow female referees Salima Mukansanga of Rwanda and Yamashita Yoshimi of Japan are also involved at the Qatar World Cup.