Stephanie Frappart to become first woman to referee in men's World Cup

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When Stephanie Frappart officiates Thursday's group stage match between Germany and Costa Rica, she will make history as the first woman to officiate a game at a men's World Cup.


She has served as a fourth official for the 2022 competition thus far, and she will create history when she assumes complete responsibility for the match in Group E at Al Bayt Stadium.


An all-female officiating staff will be assembled by Neuza Back of Brazil and Karen Diaz Medina of Mexico, marking another first for the men's World Cup. The offside expert on the VAR panel will be Kathryn Nesbitt.


The 38-year-old Frappart has officiated finals for both the 2022 Coupe de France and the 2019 women's World Cup. She also has experience officiating Champions League and European World Cup qualifiers.


The outcome of the game on Thursday will be crucial for the teams who advance from Group E. Germany is now in fourth place, followed by Costa Rica.


To advance to the round of 16, Costa Rica must defeat Spain in the group's other match, while Hansi Flick's team must triumph for any hope of qualifying.


Germany would be eliminated at the group stage of two consecutive tournaments for the first time in their history if they fail to earn the three points.