India’s Uvena Fernandes, who served as an assistant referee at the 2016 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, has announced her retirement, as stated by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) on Friday.
Uvena, who hails from Goa, became the only Indian assistant referee in a FIFA World Cup final, officiating at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2016 in Jordan. The 43-year-old will continue to contribute by serving as a referee assessor and instructor.
In a statement released by AIFF, Uvena expressed, “I have been a referee for almost 20 years, and I think I have already made significant contributions by achieving several milestones. Now, I think it is time to make way for the youngsters.”
“Since I have already made my contribution, I believe the younger generation should also get opportunities, and I can contribute as an instructor or an assessor to do justice to Indian football,” Uvena, a senior officer in the Indian Air Force, added.
Uvena was a member of the elite FIFA panel and officiated in four matches, including the final at the U-17 Women’s World Cup in 2016. In the same year, she received the prestigious AFC Special Referees Award.
Additionally, she officiated in two Asian Games and four Women’s Asian Cups. Notably, Uvena had also represented India at the 2003 AFC Championship, where she competed against Chinese Taipei, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam before transitioning to a career in refereeing.