Aimee Barrett-Theron: Referee quits after breast cancer diagnosis

Aimee Barrett-Theron, one of the world’s leading female referees, has stepped down after being diagnosed with breast cancer.

The 39-year-old South African is the most capped female international referee after taking charge of 52 Tests.

“I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer,” she said in a statement.

“The good news is that it’s treatable, and I’m working with an incredible team of specialists who are fully aligned with the goal of getting me healthy and back on the field in a matter of months.”

Barrett-Theron, who has also refereed in the United Rugby Championship, last appeared in charge of South Africa A against Zimbabwe last month.

He discovered evidence of the disease through a “self-examination” and encouraged others to do the same.

In his statement, the Cape Town-born official promised to return to refereeing.

“Please let this be your reminder: check yourself, listen to your body and don’t delay for anything unusual,” she added.

In 2024, Barrett-Theron headlined the Under-20 Six Nations after falling out with England’s Henry Pollock and several Wales players.

His chats with both captains, telling them “I’m not mad, I’m really disappointed”, won him a legion of fans.

Barrett-Theron was also part of the officiating team for the Women’s Rugby World Cup final between England and Canada at the Allianz Stadium last year.

South African Rugby Union (SARU) president Mark Alexander said: “Amy has been a determined and focused trailblazer on the field and we know she will approach her treatment with the same determination and single-mindedness.

“He has had to overcome many, many obstacles to reach his refereeing level and we know he will take this next challenge in his stride. We wish him Godspeed in his recovery and look forward to seeing him back on the field at some point in the future.”