The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) have announced a French woman, Stephanie Frappart as the referee who will take charge of the August 14 Super Cup clash between Liverpool and Chelsea.
The 35-year-old Frappart will be assisted by two other female officials, Manuela Nicolosi, also of France and Ireland’s Michelle O’Neill in the match which will take place at Turkish club, Besiktas’ stadium, Vodafone Park in Istanbul.
Frappart, who is no stranger to the big occasions, having refereed the FIFA Women’s World Cup final in July becomes the first female official to referee a major UEFA men’s match.
Frappart made history in her homeland when she became the first female to officiate a men’s match in the French Ligue 1, where she will be a registered referee for next season.
UEFA president, Aleksander Ceferin told the governing body’s website : “I have said on many occasions that the potential for women’s football has no limits and I am delighted that Stéphanie Frappart has been appointed to officiate at this year’s UEFA Super Cup along with assistant referees Manuela Nicolosi and Michelle O’Neill.
“As an organization, we place the utmost importance on the development of women’s football in all areas. I hope the skill and devotion that Stéphanie has shown throughout her career to reach this level will provide inspiration to millions of girls and women around Europe and show them there should be no barriers in order to reach one’s dream.”
Frappart is however not the first female to be involved in officiating in a UEFA competition. Nicole Petignat took charge of three UEFA Cup qualifying round games from 2004-2009.
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