A notable milestone was reached at the recent men’s World Cup as American referee Kathryn Nesbitt took on a prominent role among the tournament’s officiating crew. Nesbitt, one of six women selected by FIFA from a pool of 170 officials worldwide, served as the head official on a team of American women, alongside assistant referees Brooke Mayo and Kathryn Nesbitt. Together, they officiated two matches during the competition.
This presence builds on the precedent set in 2022 when Stephanie Frappart of France, Neuza Back of Brazil, and Karen Díaz of Mexico became the first female referees to oversee matches at the men’s World Cup in Qatar. Now, Nesbitt and her colleagues have broadened female representation among officials on the world’s biggest soccer stage.
Other female referees at the tournament included Katia Itzel Garcia from Mexico, who refereed the group stage match between Tunisia and the Netherlands, as well as Sandra Ramirez of Mexico and Tatiana Guzman of Nicaragua, who worked as assistant referees and video assistant referees (VARs).
Nesbitt, 40, with a long history in refereeing dating back to age 14, has overcome significant challenges during her career. She recalls moments when criticism—often from frustrated parents—led her to consider quitting the profession. Encouraged by mentors to persevere through adversity, she ultimately became the first female full-time referee in Major League Soccer (MLS). Her husband, Chris Penso, also serves as an MLS assistant referee.
Internationally, Nesbitt has officiated at major events including the 2023 Women’s World Cup final and the 2024 Olympic Games. These experiences bolstered her confidence entering the men’s tournament, where the stakes and scrutiny are significantly higher. “You kind of learn how to take up space,” she said, noting that part of her role involves demonstrating confidence and authority amid intense pressure.
A brief but viral moment during the Czech Republic–South Africa match captured Nesbitt asserting control when a player attempted to leave during an official discussion. Her quick action to call the player back underscored the need for respect towards officials regardless of gender. The video drew widespread attention and praise, particularly for Nesbitt’s calm yet firm handling of the situation.
Beyond officiating, Nesbitt sees her work as a broader symbol of possibility for young girls and women. Citing studies that show half of girls drop out of sports due to self-confidence issues, she expressed hope that her presence at the highest level could inspire others to believe in their own potential. “Seeing a woman strong and confident, excelling at the highest level of the game on the biggest stage in the world,” she said, “is an image they can rely on in moments when they feel small or inferior.”
As women continue to break barriers within male-dominated sports environments, Nesbitt’s career embodies both the progress made and the challenges that remain for gender equality in professional soccer officiating.