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When it comes to Germany's place in the round of 16 at the World Cup in Qatar on Thursday evening, all eyes will also be on a woman: Stephanie Frappart.
She is the first referee in World Cup history to be used.
Stephanie Frappart, Fifa referee
»I was very happy because it was not necessarily to be expected that I would be selected. I am very proud and honored to represent France at the World Cup.«
38 years old, 1 meter 64 tall.
Frappart had already been nominated for the European Men's Championship last year, but had not officiated a game there.
In December 2020, she became the first woman to officiate a men's Champions League game.
Stephanie Frappart, Fifa referee
»Of course it gets emotional – all the trappings in the World Cup stadium with the large crowd and many expectations. But after that I will focus on the pitch because we need to make the right decisions and perform well by focusing on the main goal on the pitch. «
In addition to Frappart, Neuza Back and Karen Diaz are also used as her assistants.
For all three is a case for the history books.
Stephanie Frappart, Fifa referee
“For us it also means more experience and more management with the players. Every game, every year, we improve a lot. I think we will be ready for the World Cup. «
National coach Hansi Flick also relies on the performance of the first female referees in his team's decisive game.
Hansi Flick, national coach
“I have 100 percent confidence. Because of her performance and her achievements, she deserves to be here. We're looking forward to the game and I hope she's looking forward to the game as much as we are and I think she'll do very well. «
Stephanie Frappard - her body language is impressively clear.
Your commitment as World Cup referee - long overdue.