Sian Massey-Ellis has announced her retirement from officiating to become the FA’s Senior Manager – Women Referees from September, a role aimed at supporting and developing female officials across England. The 40‑year‑old will guide talents through to the elite game.

Her career saw her become only the second female assistant referee in the Premier League, officiating over 150 top‑flight matches. She has also worked five Women’s FA Cup finals, was the first female assistant in the Community Shield, and in 2021 became the first woman to serve as assistant VAR in a men’s FA Cup final, later acting as AVAR at the 2025 Carabao Cup final.

Internationally, Massey‑Ellis has refereed at four Women’s European Championships, two Women’s World Cups, the 2018 Women’s Champions League final, and in 2019 became the first English woman to officiate a men’s Europa League fixture as an assistant referee.

She praised her journey, noting it has “helped change perceptions, opened doors and inspired young people.” Chief Refereeing Officer Howard Webb called her a “powerhouse” whose impact will be felt for years.