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

Michelle O’Neill has long been a trailblazer in the world of sports, breaking barriers and setting new standards for women in the industry. She has officiated at the highest levels of the game, including multiple FIFA Women’s World Cups and the Olympic Games, earning respect and admiration on the global stage. Her expertise, commitment, and passion for football have left an indelible mark on the sport.

In 2019, Michelle made history as 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. The same trio went onto be appointed to the Unite the Union Champions Cup 2019 Final between Dundalk & Linfield.

Michelle’s journey into refereeing began after a successful playing career in the local Wexford League and for her County Team. She turned to officiating in the 2007/2008 season, and through her dedication and talent, she advanced through the Football Association of Ireland’s School of Excellence and on to the League of Ireland's Men’s Panel in 2010. One year later, in 2011, she achieved the prestigious honour of becoming a FIFA Assistant Referee, a significant milestone for any official representing their country on an International level.

Throughout her career, Michelle has been a regular on the sidelines of both the SSE Airtricity Men’s & Women’s Leagues. She played 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 & 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.

Her first major appointment with UEFA came in 2012 when she officiated the UEFA Women’s U19 Championship Final in Turkey. She then went on to make notable appearances in the UEFA Women’s European Championship Finals, Netherlands in 2017 and England in 2022 topping it off with the UEFA Women’s Champions League Final in 2023. Michelle has also been appointed to Men’s UEFA Competitions such as the Europa League, the U21 Championship, and the UEFA Men’s Youth League matches.

In the FIFA arena, Michelle's assignments were numerous and distinguished. She officiated in multiple World Cup qualifiers, the University Games in Kazan 2013, 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.

Reflecting on her career, the most decorated match official in Irish sporting history said:  “It has been an incredible journey, one filled with unforgettable moments and immense pride. 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.”

As she steps away from the pitch, Michelle O’Neill is excited to focus on pursuing various opportunities. She is particularly passionate about inspiring future generations, especially women in sports, through sharing her story and experiences.

“I am eager to continue contributing to the world of sports in new ways,” Michelle added. “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 said: "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."

Michelle’s retirement marks the end of a significant era in football officiating, but her legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence and inspire for years to come.