Indian Referee Riiohlang Dhar Set for FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup 2026

Riiohlang Dhar's Historic Appointment

Guwahati, June 28: Riiohlang Dhar, an Indian FIFA Assistant Referee from Meghalaya, has been selected for the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup 2026 in Poland. She believes that the increasing number of women in high-level football officiating signifies a shift towards merit-based recognition, and she hopes this trend encourages more women to consider careers in refereeing.

In a recent interview, Riiohlang highlighted the significance of the appointments of Tori Penso from the United States and Katia Itzel Garcia from Mexico at the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup, indicating a transformative phase in football officiating.

"This is incredibly meaningful, not just for me but for female referees globally. Observing them officiate at such prestigious levels fills us with pride and demonstrates that opportunities are expanding based on skill and competence," she remarked.

Penso made history as the first American woman to officiate a top-level FIFA men's tournament, while Garcia became the first Mexican woman to achieve this milestone. They follow in the footsteps of France's Stephanie Frappart, who was the first woman to referee at a senior FIFA men's tournament during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

"This sends a strong message that women can excel in football officiating at the highest levels. Times are evolving, and I hope this inspires more women to have confidence in their abilities and chase their dreams," Riiohlang added.

Her selection for the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup is another significant achievement in her career, having previously served as an assistant referee at the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in the Dominican Republic in 2024.

"Being appointed for another FIFA tournament is a moment of pride, but it also carries significant responsibility. I am eager to embrace the challenge and will strive to perform my best in every match," she stated.

Riiohlang considers her selection a proud accomplishment for Indian football officiating as a whole.

"This is a proud moment for all match officials from India. If I can reach this level, I believe anyone from my country can achieve it with hard work and dedication," she expressed.

As a member of the Meghalaya Police, Riiohlang emphasized that maintaining the physical fitness and technical standards required for international officiating has never felt burdensome due to her passion for the sport.

"My love for football has been the primary motivation behind my journey. Staying fit, learning continuously, and keeping up with the latest developments in the game is something I genuinely enjoy. I have never viewed it as a burden; rather, I relish the process of improving every day," she shared, noting that the challenges she faced have strengthened her both professionally and personally.

She expressed her gratitude to her family, colleagues, friends, and the Meghalaya Police Department for their unwavering support.

"Their encouragement has been crucial throughout my journey," she acknowledged.

Riiohlang also thanked the All India Football Federation (AIFF), the Meghalaya Football Association, and local football clubs for providing access to training facilities, despite the limited availability of open grounds in the city.

"Without their support, this journey would not have been possible," she concluded.