Outside the game: Three women making history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
In a World Cup dominated by star players, dramatic goals and title contenders, three women have quietly carved their names into football history.
Referee Tori Penso and assistant referees Brooke Mayo and Kathryn Nesbitt became the only female on-field referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, in a game between Czech Republic vs South Africa, marks another important milestone for women in football. Their appointment was about more than just one game. It was the culmination of years of sacrifice, perseverance and relentless pursuit of excellence on the world’s biggest sporting stage.
For Mayo, the journey began as a teenager directing youth games in Garland, Texas. More than a decade later, she found herself preparing for a World Cup assignment, dsiream, which became a focus once she realized it was within reach.
“When I realized in 2023 that we had an opportunity to realistically win a place at this World Cup, I focused on making that dream come true,” Mayo told US Soccer.
The journey to the World Cup required countless hours of preparation. Mayo looked for opportunities to officiate as many international and Major League Soccer matches as possible, while pushing himself physically with the help of conditioning coaches.
The work paid off when she, Penso and Nesbitt were selected for soccer’s biggest tournament. Still, getting nominated for the World Cup is only part of the challenge, according to Mayo.
“The first thing I’m going to do is let all my friends and family know and help coordinate their travel,” she said, describing the hectic 48 hours leading up to the game. Tactical briefings, fitness sessions and detailed preparations quickly follow before the officials step onto the pitch.
Behind the success lies the support system that made it possible. Mayo credits her parents, wife and sister for standing by her throughout a career that often required personal sacrifice.
“My mom and dad watched every game I managed that was live streamed for over a decade,” she said.
These sacrifices went beyond missing family gatherings and special occasions. Mayo invested his own money in travel during his early years and eventually left his teaching and coaching career to focus on officiating at international level.
“When you chase a dream, you’re not the only one making sacrifices. It’s all your loved ones too.”
The visibility of Pens, Mayo and Nesbitt at the World Cup is far more important. While Mayo insists the trio simply see themselves as a team that have earned their place through performance, he understands what their presence means to budding referees around the world.
“Even though I see us as a normal trio who have earned their place at this FIFA World Cup, I know that we represent something bigger than ourselves,” she said.
Mayo recalled moments when young girls, volunteers and soccer fans came up to officials to express how inspiring it was to see women operating at the highest level of the sport.
During her career, she has witnessed several historic breakthroughs for female referees and believes that opportunities for women have expanded dramatically.
“We know we’ve had to work a little harder to get the same opportunities as our male counterparts,” she said. “But I’m sure all the women who performed at a high level helped open the door permanently.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, the legacy of the trio is already secured. Their story is not just about is organizing a football match. It’s about representation, resilience and proving that there are no limits on the game’s biggest stage.
For the next generation watching from the stands or from home, the message is clear. You belong.
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Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
21 Jun 2026 02:13 IST