Exploring Muslim FIFA Women Referees’ Experiences in the Middle East

This study explores Muslim FIFA women referees’ experiences in the Middle East. A total of nine semi-structured interviews, including referees, referee assessors, an administrator from the region, and participant observation were conducted. Using an interpretive phenomenological approach, the findings were as follows: First, this study found that for Muslim FIFA women referees, there are inadequate learning and training opportunities. Second, unsatisfactory Member Association support of women match officials were drawn out. Third, this study found that women referees experience significant pressure to be married to benefit from family assistance. Single referees who get married often face the potential pressure of having to quit refereeing if their families do not support them. In both cases, family support of women referees is critical.