Michelle O'Neill announces retirement to end 18-year illustrious career as assistant referee

"Officiating at World Cups and Olympic Games has been a dream come true, and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences this career has given me. Now, it is time for the next chapter," said O'Neill.

OFF YOU GO: FAI referee Michelle O'Neill poses for a portrait after announcing her retirement. Pic: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

Renowned FIFA International Assistant Referee Michelle O’Neill has announced her retirement, ending an illustrious career spanning over 18 years.

The Wexford native officiated at the highest levels of the game, including multiple FIFA Women’s World Cups and the Olympic Games.

In 2019, O'Neill made history by becoming the first Irish person to officiate at a FIFA World Cup Final, overseeing the clash between the United States and the Netherlands.

Later that same year, she was part of the first-ever all-female refereeing team to officiate at a UEFA Men's Super Cup Final, held in Istanbul between Liverpool and Chelsea before the same trio went on to oversee the Unite the Union Champions Cup 2019 Final between Dundalk & Linfield.

O'Neill had always been a regular on the sidelines of both the SSE Airtricity Men’s & Women’s Leagues, playing a vital role in the officiating teams for the The Presidents Cup Final, League Cup Finals, Setanta Sports Cup Finals and the FAI Men’s Cup Finals in 2013 and 2021.

She officiated at multiple Women’s League Cup Finals, also taking charge as the referee for the Women’s FAI Cup Final in 2014.

And during her work with UEFA and FIFA, she would also officiate in the UEFA Women’s European Championship Finals in the Netherlands in 2017 and in England in 2022, topping it off with the UEFA Women’s Champions League Final in 2023 along with two FIFA Women’s U20 World Cups (2016, 2018 Final), three FIFA Women’s World Cups (2015, 2019 Final, 2023 third place Final), and the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021.

“It has been an incredible journey, one filled with unforgettable moments and immense pride," said O'Neill, who is now looking to help the next generation of officials.

FAI referee Michelle O'Neill poses for a portrait after announcing her retirement at the FAI National Training Centre in Dublin. Photo by David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

"Officiating at World Cups and Olympic Games has been a dream come true, and I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences this career has given me. Now, it is time for the next chapter.

“I am eager to continue contributing to the world of sports in new ways. My journey isn’t over; it’s evolving. I look forward to helping the next generation of referees and athletes achieve their dreams.” 

FAI President Paul Cooke added: "On behalf of the Football Association of Ireland, I'd like to congratulate Michelle O'Neill on an outstanding career.

"Michelle has been a true trailblazer for match officials, not just in the League of Ireland and FAI Cup on both the men's and women's side, but also having excelled in FIFA Women's World Cups, UEFA Women's European Championships, Olympic Games, UEFA Super Cup Final and UEFA Women's Champions League Final.

"Michelle has been a superb role model for women involved in Irish Football and we wish her well with the next stage of her career."