The role of the referee and assistant referees in sports, particularly in soccer, is to enforce the rules of the game, maintain fair play, and ensure the safety of the players. The referee is the main official on the field who has the authority to make final decisions on fouls, goals, and other game-related incidents. Assistant referees, also known as linesmen, assist the referee by signaling for offside, out-of-bounds, and other infractions that occur on the field. Together, they work to uphold the integrity of the game and ensure a level playing field for both teams.