Fired Female NFL Referee Alleges Sexism in Discrimination Lawsuit

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Robin DeLorenzo, one of the first women referees in the NFL, has filed a discrimination lawsuit against the league, claiming she faced sexism while serving as an official from 2022 to 2025. The lawsuit alleges DeLorenzo was subjected to harassment, unequal treatment, and ultimately had her career ended due to 'tainted evaluations' by those who discriminated against her.

Why it matters

DeLorenzo's lawsuit sheds light on the challenges women still face in breaking into and succeeding in male-dominated professional sports leagues like the NFL. Her case highlights the need for the league to do more to support and protect female officials and employees from discrimination and harassment.

The details

According to the lawsuit, DeLorenzo faced a 'pattern of discriminatory indignities' that began when she was provided ill-fitting, man-sized clothing and instructed to showcase her ponytail through her hat. The suit also claims an NFL officials crew chief forced DeLorenzo to perform a 'humiliating singing performance' in front of others, and that she was repeatedly exposed to harassment and derogatory remarks from the same crew chief, who eventually refused to speak to her. The lawsuit also alleges DeLorenzo was subjected to a 'male power play' when she was forced to attend a training opportunity that no male official had to attend.

• DeLorenzo officiated in the NFL from 2022 to 2025.
• DeLorenzo filed the lawsuit in Manhattan federal court last week.

What’s next

The lawsuit is currently pending in Manhattan federal court. The NFL has not yet responded publicly to the allegations.