Pioneering Premier League Referee Uriah Rennie Dies At 65

Trailblazing Premier League referee Uriah Rennie, who broke racial barriers in football, has died at 65, sparking heartfelt tributes.

Uriah Rennie, the first Black referee in the Premier League and a respected figure in English football, has passed away at the age of 65.

Rennie made history in 1997 when he became the first Black official to take charge of a top-flight English match between Derby County and Wimbledon. Over his career, he refereed more than 300 professional matches, including 175 in the Premier League, before retiring in 2008.

A recent personal update had revealed that Rennie was working hard to walk again after being left paralyzed from the waist down by a rare medical condition.

Originally from Jamaica, Rennie moved to Sheffield as a young boy and grew up in the Wybourn area. His journey in refereeing began in 1979 with local football matches, eventually leading to his groundbreaking role in the Premier League.

A statement from Sheffield & Hallamshire County Football Association described him as a pioneer. “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former chair and trailblazing referee, Uriah Rennie,” the statement read. “Uriah made history as the Premier League’s first Black referee, officiating over 300 top-flight matches between 1997 and 2008. He broke down barriers, shaped our football community and inspired generations to come.”

Tributes have poured in following the news of his death. Leon Mann, co-founder of the Football Black List, said: “Incredibly sad news about the passing of Uriah Rennie. A Black pioneering referee and leader in the game. We owe so much to those who push open the doors. Uriah should never, ever be forgotten. Thoughts and prayers with Uriah’s family and close friends.”

Former footballer Stan Collymore also expressed his sorrow, saying he was “incredibly sad” to hear of Rennie’s passing, calling him both a “pioneer” and a “trailblazer.”

In addition to his contributions on the pitch, Rennie had a long-standing role as a magistrate in Sheffield starting in 1996. He was actively involved in causes such as promoting equality in sports, supporting mental health initiatives, and fighting against poverty.

Academically accomplished, Rennie held a master’s degree in business administration and law. In recognition of his impact, he was awarded an honorary doctorate by Sheffield Hallam University in November 2023 for his work in sports and community service.

In May 2024, he was also named the new chancellor of the university, a role that further reflected his leadership and legacy.

Uriah Rennie is remembered not only for his officiating career but for breaking barriers and serving as a role model to many in and beyond the football world.

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