In a groundbreaking move for gender equality in football, the Copa America will feature female referees and assistants for the first time in its history. The South American Football Confederation’s announcement of this significant action shows a dedication to advancing professionalism and equality in the sport.

Trailblazing Officials

Maria Victoria Penso from the United States and Edina Alves from Brazil have been appointed as referees for the tournament. 

A group of highly skilled assistants—Neuza Back of Brazil, Mary Blanco of Colombia, Migdalia Rodriguez of Venezuela, and Brooke Mayo and Kathryn Nesbitt of the United States—will support them.

Additionally, Tatiana Guzman from Nicaragua has been designated as a video review official, marking another significant inclusion of female officials in high-stakes football matches.

CONMEBOL’s Commitment to Equality

“This is a high commitment taken by CONMEBOL since 2016, betting on the development and professionalization of more women on and off the field of play, promoting football with equality in different tournaments,” the South American football body said in a statement. 

The inclusion of female officials in Copa America is part of a broader initiative to ensure gender equality in football, both on and off the pitch.

Extensive Roster of Officials

Starting on June 20, the United States will host the Copa America, which will employ a total of 101 match officials.

This diverse group of officials includes experienced professionals from various countries, ensuring that the tournament is officiated at the highest standards.

International Collaboration

As part of a CONMEBOL-UEFA agreement, Italian referee Maurizio Mariani, along with assistants Daniele Brindoni and Alberto Tegoni and VAR officials Marco Di Bello and Alejandro Di Paolo, will also participate in the tournament. 

This collaboration underscores the international effort to enhance the quality and fairness of officiating in major football events.

Pioneering Equality in Football

The inclusion of female referees and assistants in Copa America is a significant milestone in the journey towards gender equality in sports. It highlights the increasing opportunities for women in football and sets a precedent for other major tournaments around the world. 

By integrating female officials, CONMEBOL is not only promoting diversity but also ensuring that the best talents, regardless of gender, are recognized and utilized.

Wrap up 

The 2024 Copa America is set to be a historic event, not just for the thrilling matches and high-level competition but also for its progressive steps towards gender equality. 

The inclusion of female referees and assistants will undoubtedly inspire many and pave the way for further advancements in women’s roles within football.

As the world watches these pioneering women take the field, they will serve as role models, demonstrating that football is truly a sport for everyone.

The Information is Taken from Reuters and The Washington Post