The 2026 World Cup, hosted across North America, will make history with its 48-team format. However, it also marks a massive milestone for soccer officiating. The United States refereeing delegation stands out for its strong female pioneering, continually shattering old barriers on the pitch.
The main highlight is Tori Penso. The 39-year-old from Florida will become the first American woman to work as a head referee in a men’s World Cup match. Penso’s journey is truly inspiring. Before fully dedicating herself to officiating in 2013, she worked in digital marketing for huge global brands. Since then, she quickly climbed the ranks. She became the fourth woman to referee a Major League Soccer (MLS) match and recently officiated the 2023 Women’s World Cup final. Officiating a men’s World Cup in her home country was her ultimate goal. Penso proves that female officials are fully capable physically, mentally, and technically.
Joining her is Kathryn Nesbitt, another incredible trailblazer. Four years ago, Nesbitt broke the global glass ceiling in Qatar 2022. She became the first woman to officiate a men’s World Cup match as an assistant referee. Now, she brings her invaluable high-level experience back for the 2026 tournament.
In total, the United States will send eight elite officials to the World Cup, covering all critical roles. The American team includes head referees Tori Penso and Ismail Elfath. The assistant referees are Kathryn Nesbitt, Brooke Mayo, Kyle Atkins, and Corey Parker. Finally, Joe Dickerson and Armando Villarreal will serve as Video Match Officials (VAR). Together, this talented group will oversee the biggest and most demanding soccer tournament in history.
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