For years, female match officials faced a daunting choice between pursuing their elite sporting ambitions and starting a family. However, a series of FIFA initiatives is now ensuring that referees no longer have to sacrifice their careers for motherhood, providing a blueprint for inclusivity at the highest level of the game.
Gianni Infantino has received a significant boost in his quest for a third term as FIFA president after the Asian Football Confederation performed a dramatic U-turn to endorse his leadership. The move comes just months after the AFC joined other continental bodies in a fierce criticism of the Swiss-Italian official over a controversial World Cup investment plan.
FIFA has officially announced that the United States will play host to the first-ever Women’s Club World Cup in 2028, marking a massive milestone for the professional game. Alongside this landmark hosting decision, the governing body has committed to a significant financial boost for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil to ensure players and clubs receive greater rewards than ever before.
The United States Women's Under-17 team have made history by securing the largest victory at any age level in a World Cup tournament. They delivered an incredible 17-0 thrashing against Samoa in their opening match, with talented forward Maddie DiMaria leading the charge by scoring six remarkable goals to etch her name alongside the best in the sport.
Spain have strengthened their position at the summit of the latest FIFA Women’s World Ranking after a successful double-header against the United States. Meanwhile, Malawi have recorded an unprecedented surge up the standings following their historic continental run, and Denmark have secured a highly anticipated return to the top 10 for the first time in 16 years.
