First transgender referee to officiate UEFA international game

A historic moment in football will take place on Monday as Sapir Berman becomes the first transgender referee to officiate an international match, AFP reported.

Berman, 30, will oversee the Women’s Under-17 Euro qualifier between Northern Ireland and Montenegro in Belfast, marking a significant milestone for European football.

Speaking to AFP, Berman expressed a mix of emotions, describing the opportunity as an "overwhelming feeling" filled with "immense pride and indescribable excitement." However, more than anything, she sees it as a chance to continue pursuing her passion in the sport that shaped her.

"I step into this moment with deep humility and excitement, hoping to do my very best, to represent my country, to stand for my sisters in the transgender community, and to show that every dream is possible," she said.

Berman also emphasised the wider impact of this achievement, particularly for the young players on the pitch. "When young players see diversity on the field, it helps make inclusion normal, and it sends a strong message that what matters is talent and commitment."

This landmark event follows England’s Lucy Clark, who became the first transgender woman to referee a match in 2018 in England’s semi-professional league, though she has never officiated internationally.

Berman has been refereeing for 14 years and now joins a growing conversation around transgender inclusion in sports. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has allowed individual federations to set their own policies since 2021 to address concerns over competitive fairness.

While some sports have embraced transgender participation, others remain cautious. World Rugby has restricted transgender players from women’s competitions due to concerns over injury risks, whereas the International Shooting Federation has determined that male hormones provide no advantage in shooting events.

Berman’s appointment is seen as a step forward for inclusion in football, with her historic role sending a strong message about diversity and representation in sport.