No Female Referees this World Cup; Viennot Fails Sprint Test

Frenchwoman Nelly Viennot’s dreams of becoming the first female World Cup linesman came to an end today when she failed a sprint test. Viennot was one of 80 candidates who were tested on their physical fitness and knowledge of the game. A total of eight officials, including Viennot, did not pass the test and will not get a trip to Germany and the nice little $40,000 paycheck for one month’s work. We’re a bit disappointed that Viennot will not be in Germany, but we are heartened to know that another referee who did pass the sprint test will take her place and be just as efficient at making us want to kick out television when he is out of position on an offside call.