FIFA Names Referees for 2026 U-20 and U-17 Women's World Cups

FIFA has officially announced the match officials who will take charge of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2026™ and the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026™. The appointments cover referees, assistant referees, and video match officials for both youth tournaments, ensuring the highest standards of officiating as the next generation of female stars takes the global stage.

The selection process is a meticulous one, with FIFA’s Refereeing Committee reviewing performances from domestic leagues and international competitions over the past cycle. Officials from all six confederations have been chosen, highlighting the worldwide depth of talent in women’s refereeing. This diversity is crucial for the development of the game, as it exposes young players to different styles of officiating and promotes consistency across borders.

For the U-20 Women’s World Cup, the tournament serves as a vital stepping stone for players aiming for the senior World Cup. Similarly, the U-17 level is the first taste of global competition for many teenagers, making fair and competent officiating essential. The appointed referees will undergo specific training camps and workshops in the lead-up to the tournaments, focusing on interpretation of the Laws of the Game, fitness, and the use of VAR technology, which will be implemented in both competitions.

The 2026 editions are particularly significant as they continue the momentum from the record-breaking 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. With increased investment in women’s football at the youth level, the quality of officiating must match the rising standards of play. These appointments underscore FIFA’s commitment to developing referees alongside players, ensuring that the women’s game grows from the grassroots to the elite level with integrity and professionalism.

As the tournaments draw closer, fans can expect detailed announcements on match venues and schedules. For now, the officials have been given their marching orders, and the countdown to kick-off begins. The U-20 Women’s World Cup will showcase the stars of tomorrow, while the U-17 tournament will be a glimpse of the future—all overseen by a dedicated team of referees ready to make the right calls.