It's official! FIFA has confirmed Costa Rican referee Marianela Araya as the head referee for the 2023 Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, which will begin on July 20.

Araya stands out on the list of 33 referees, 55 assistants and 19 video assistant referee (VAR) team members from around the world, who will be responsible for officiating all the matches of the World Cup.

Furthermore, this will be the first time in history that a Costa Rican woman will be a referee in a Women's World Cup. Marianela will prepare for this great event by attending an Elite Seminar and a FIFA Seminar in Uruguay.

"I am extremely happy and grateful for this opportunity. When someone enters the world of refereeing, this is the ultimate dream," Araya said.