FIFA announced on Thursday the selection of 52 referees for the upcoming World Cup, scheduled from June 11 to July 19. Among the officials are six women, marking a significant inclusion in the tournament's officiating corps. The list includes referees from 50 member associations across all six confederations. Alongside the referees, 88 assistant referees and 30 video match officials will be appointed to support match operations throughout the competition. This is the first time FIFA has integrated women referees into both men's and women's elite tournaments at such a scale during a World Cup event. The chosen officials have undergone rigorous assessment and training in preparation for the high-pressure environment of the tournament. FIFA emphasized that the selection was based on performance, fitness levels and decision-making accuracy during international matches over the past two years. The inclusion of female referees reflects broader changes in football's officiating landscape, though no Nigerian referee is on the list.