World Cup 2026: All-woman referee team for Czechia vs South Africa match makes history

The FIFA World Cup 2026 delivered another landmark moment on Thursday as referee Tori Penso and assistant referees Brooke Mayo and Kathryn Nesbitt became the tournament’s only all-woman officiating team during Czechia’s Group A clash against South Africa in Atlanta.

The American trio’s appointment represented another major step in the increasing visibility of female officials at the highest level of world football, with all three making their World Cup debuts together on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

Historic Milestone for Women Officials

The appointment of Penso, Mayo, and Nesbitt added another chapter to their growing influence within international officiating.

According to US Soccer, the trio had already made history in 2025 as the first all-female on-field officiating crew to oversee a Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Final when Austin FC faced Nashville SC.

Their appearance at the World Cup further reinforced FIFA’s continued push to integrate women officials into major men’s tournaments, following similar appointments in recent editions of the competition.

Years of Sacrifice Behind the Achievement

Speaking ahead of the match, assistant referee Brooke Mayo described the World Cup selection as the reward for years of dedication, sacrifice, and relentless preparation.

“When I found out we had earned a spot, I felt elated and excited to represent the US Soccer and Concacaf and showcase all the hard work,” Mayo told US Soccer.

Mayo explained that reaching football’s biggest tournament required far more than technical preparation, pointing to the personal sacrifices made throughout the journey.

“When you are chasing a dream, you are not the only one who sacrifices — it’s all of your loved ones too,” she said.

Representing More Than Football

While Mayo insisted she often sees the officiating team as “just a normal trio that has earned their place,” she acknowledged the broader meaning behind their appointment on the global stage.

“I know we represent something bigger than ourselves,” Mayo said. “There is no limiting factor for you to achieve your dreams as long as you are willing to sacrifice, put in the work, and take advantage when the opportunity comes.”

The historic assignment in Atlanta quickly drew widespread praise online, with many supporters highlighting the significance of seeing an all-woman officiating crew at the World Cup.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The trio’s appearance also carried an important symbolic message for young girls watching around the world.

Mayo said she hopes the visibility of female referees at the World Cup will inspire future generations to believe they belong in football at every level.

“I hope they realize that they are strong and capable,” she said.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to produce historic moments on and off the pitch, the appointment of Penso, Mayo, and Nesbitt stands as another sign of the changing landscape of modern football.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 delivered another landmark moment on Thursday as referee Tori Penso and assistant referees Brooke Mayo and Kathryn Nesbitt became the tournament’s only all-woman officiating team during Czechia’s Group A clash against South Africa in Atlanta.

The American trio’s appointment represented another major step in the increasing visibility of female officials at the highest level of world football, with all three making their World Cup debuts together on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

Historic Milestone for Women Officials

The appointment of Penso, Mayo, and Nesbitt added another chapter to their growing influence within international officiating.

According to US Soccer, the trio had already made history in 2025 as the first all-female on-field officiating crew to oversee a Lamar Hunt US Open Cup Final when Austin FC faced Nashville SC.

Their appearance at the World Cup further reinforced FIFA’s continued push to integrate women officials into major men’s tournaments, following similar appointments in recent editions of the competition.

Years of Sacrifice Behind the Achievement

Speaking ahead of the match, assistant referee Brooke Mayo described the World Cup selection as the reward for years of dedication, sacrifice, and relentless preparation.

“When I found out we had earned a spot, I felt elated and excited to represent the US Soccer and Concacaf and showcase all the hard work,” Mayo told US Soccer.

Mayo explained that reaching football’s biggest tournament required far more than technical preparation, pointing to the personal sacrifices made throughout the journey.

“When you are chasing a dream, you are not the only one who sacrifices — it’s all of your loved ones too,” she said.

Representing More Than Football

While Mayo insisted she often sees the officiating team as “just a normal trio that has earned their place,” she acknowledged the broader meaning behind their appointment on the global stage.

“I know we represent something bigger than ourselves,” Mayo said. “There is no limiting factor for you to achieve your dreams as long as you are willing to sacrifice, put in the work, and take advantage when the opportunity comes.”

The historic assignment in Atlanta quickly drew widespread praise online, with many supporters highlighting the significance of seeing an all-woman officiating crew at the World Cup.

Inspiring the Next Generation

The trio’s appearance also carried an important symbolic message for young girls watching around the world.

Mayo said she hopes the visibility of female referees at the World Cup will inspire future generations to believe they belong in football at every level.

“I hope they realize that they are strong and capable,” she said.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues to produce historic moments on and off the pitch, the appointment of Penso, Mayo, and Nesbitt stands as another sign of the changing landscape of modern football.