Overview

• During a third-division match on March 29-30, referee Fabienne Michel faced sexist chants from Rot-Weiss Essen fans after a controversial decision.
• The abuse, including explicit chants, was not addressed during the match and only came to light through media reporting days later.
• On April 4, 2025, the DFB officially launched an investigation into the incident and requested a formal statement from Rot-Weiss Essen.
• The DFB emphasized the importance of protecting female referees and acknowledged the need for stronger measures to combat sexism in the sport.
• Michel is the only female referee in Germany's top three leagues, highlighting the systemic challenges and lack of safeguards for women in football officiating.