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League: FIFA World CupSport: SoccerCountry: GlobalCategory: Scores & Results

Tori Penso officiates World Cup match with all-female crew

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 4:27 PM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Tori Penso officiates World Cup match with all-female crew
Summary

Tori Penso is making history at the FIFA World Cup as she officiates a Group A match between Czechia and South Africa on June 18 in Atlanta. Penso, the second woman to referee a men’s World Cup match, is supported by assistants Brooke Mayo and Kathryn Nesbitt, both from the U.S. Prior to this assignment, Penso officiated at the 2023 Women's World Cup Final and has been part of the FIFA international referee panel since 2021. The match marks a significant milestone for female officials in a traditionally male-dominated arena.

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By the Numbers
  • •Penso is the second woman to referee a men's World Cup match.
  • •She previously officiated the 2023 Women's World Cup Final.
  • •The match is held in Atlanta on June 18.
  • •Penso is accompanied by assistants Brooke Mayo and Kathryn Nesbitt.
  • •This crew represents a notable shift toward inclusivity in sports officiating.
Latest Updates
  • 4:27 PMYahoo Sports — Who is the World Cup female ref? Tori Penso makes history with 2 female assistants
What they're saying
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This is a special crew for the Czechia clash with South Africa.

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FIFA World CupSoccer

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