AN Israeli transgender referee made history in Belfast on Monday by taking charge of the Northern Ireland v Montenegro U17s women’s international match.
According to UEFA, 30-year-old Sapir Berman’s appearance in the middle at Seaview for the Women’s Under-17 Euro qualifier represented a first in European football while unconfirmed reports have claimed a first for international football worldwide.
“It’s an overwhelming feeling — immense pride, indescribable excitement — but more than anything, it’s an opportunity to continue doing what I love, in the world that shaped me and where I grew up,” the 14-year refereeing veteran said of the appointment.
“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 LGBTQ+ community, and to show that every dream is possible.”
England’s Lucy Clark became the first transgender woman in the world to referee a match in 2018, in the semi-professional English league, but has never officiated internationally.
Berman has been refereeing matches in the Israeli Men’s Premier League for 14 years.
