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Three South African Refs on 2025 RWC Match Official Panel

Mr Mark Alexander, President of SA Rugby, congratulated the three South African match officials who were included on the panels for the Rugby World Cup in England later this year.

Aimee Barrett-Theron is on the panel for referees for the four-yearly global spectacle, which runs from 22 August to 27 September at eight venues across England.

Quinton Immelman has been appointed as one of the six Television Match Officials (TMO), while Zoe Naude is the first replacement for referees or assistant referees should one of the appointed match officials pull out.

“Aimee and Quinton have established themselves among the finest match officials in world rugby, and it is particularly gratifying to see Zoe recognised for her remarkable progress over recent seasons,” said Mr Alexander.

“For players and coaches, the Rugby World Cup is the pinnacle of the sport, and the same applies to match officials. The selection of these three outstanding South African representatives is a testament to their skill, dedication, and professionalism.

“We wish them the very best as they take to the global stage, confident that they will not only perform at the highest level but also serve as exceptional ambassadors for South African rugby.”

Barrett-Theron, a former Springbok Women’s player, made her international refereeing debut in 2016, and has held the whistle in 41 Tests to date.

Immelman is a former Test referee who has shifted his focus to TMO duties in 2021, while Naude transitioned from playing to refereeing a number of years ago. She officiated first her Test last year and is currently on SA Rugby’s National Panel.

The Springbok Women are in Pool D for the Rugby World Cup and will face Brazil (24 August), Italy (31 August) and France (7 September) in their pool matches.

RWC 2025 Match Officials Panel:

Referees (10): Aimee Barrett-Theron (SA), Maggie Cogger-Orr (NZ), Sara Cox (England), Hollie Davidson (Scotland), Natarsha Ganley (NZ), Ella Goldsmith (Australia), Aurélie Groizeleau (France), Lauren Jenner (Italy), Clara Munarini (Italy), Kat Roche (USA).

Assistant Referees (6): Maria Heitor (Portugal), Jess Ling (Australia), Amelia Luciano (USA), Amber Stamp-Dunstan (Wales), Holly Wood (England), Precious Pazani (Zimbabwe – reserve referee).

TMOs (6): Leo Colgan (Ireland), Rachel Horton (Australia), Quinton Immelman (SA), Matteo Liperini (Italy), Andrew McMenemy (Scotland), Ian Tempest (England).

First replacements: Zoe Naude (SA) – Referee / Assistant Referee; Dan Jones (England) – TMO.

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