FEATURE: EQUALITY ON THE PITCH: TACKLING GENDER BIAS IN REFEREEING
Updated: May 2, 2025
In recent years, the push for equality in football has gained momentum on and off the pitch.
Milestones like the all-female officiating team at the 2022 World Cup and increased coverage have boosted women's football's visibility.
The Role of Referees in Gender Equality
Research from Canterbury University found women often faced sexist remarks based on traditional gender roles.
A study in Turkey and Spain found female referees faced higher levels of intimidation and gendered abuse than their male counterparts. Language directed at female officials often included terms like "darling" or "sweetheart," reinforcing sexism.
Research in England revealed that many female referees didn’t recognise their experiences as sexism, often dismissing comments as "banter.
Representation In The Industry
Representation and inclusivity are crucial, especially in how the sport is presented to future generations.
A 2023 review highlighted the importance of growth, stressing the need for a diverse and well-supported workforce on and off the pitch.
In response, the FA acknowledged these challenges and introduced initiatives to improve access to training, coaching, and facilities.
Pathways
Launched in 2023, this strategy aimed to:
Halve the time to reach top refereeing levels and simplify the administrative process.
Increase inclusion, targeting a 50% rise in referees from underrepresented communities and among women.
Boost performance development with more resources and training, and increased investment.
Key Progress in 2023–24:
20% increase in match officials.
10,000+ referees recruited, with 3,139 registered.
2,527 referees from Black and Asian backgrounds
510 referees accessing bursaries for underrepresented communities.
Faster promotion to the men’s professional game—18 months quicker than before.
CORE X
CORE X, a joint initiative by the FA, PGMOL (Professional Game Match Officials Limited) and BAM Ref, supports semi-professional referees from diverse backgrounds, helping develop future leaders in officiating.
A Future for Diversity and Inclusion in Refereeing?
FA research explored the challenges facing young referees, following its strategy to improve grassroots officiating.
The study found refereeing builds confidence, conflict resolution skills, and career paths.
Despite a 72% increase in female referees since 2016, women represent only 6% of referees in England. The FA pledged to increase diversity and build a representative refereeing workforce.
Addressing media representation and the gender pay gap can create a more inclusive space for women in refereeing, helping to challenge bias and ensure they are valued.
Nerea Fernandes
Writer
Her Football Sphere
April 2025
word count: 393 words
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