Uriah Rennie, the Premier League's first Black referee, has died at the age of 65. The news of his passing on June 8, 2025, has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the footballing world, celebrating his pioneering role and impact on the sport.

Rennie’s journey to the top echelons of English football was one of breaking barriers and inspiring generations. Born in Jamaica on October 23, 1959, he moved to Sheffield, England, at the age of six. He began refereeing in 1979, working his way through local leagues and the Northern Premier League before being appointed to the Football League list of referees in 1994.

In 1997, Rennie made history when he became the first Black referee to officiate a Premier League match, taking charge of the game between Derby County and Wimbledon on August 13. However, the match had to be abandoned due to a floodlight failure. From 1997 to 2008, he officiated over 300 top-flight games. In 2000, he became a FIFA referee and joined the Select Group of professional referees the following year. Keith Hackett, head of the Professional Game Match Officials Board, once described him as "the fittest referee we have ever seen on the national and world scene."

Beyond his accomplishments on the pitch, Rennie was a respected figure off it. He earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a law degree. He served as a magistrate in Sheffield since 1996 and actively campaigned for equality and inclusion in sports, supported mental health initiatives, and worked to combat deprivation. In recognition of his contributions, Sheffield Hallam University awarded him an honorary doctorate in November 2023. Just weeks before his death, in May 2025, Rennie was installed as the Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University.

In April 2025, Rennie revealed that he was battling a rare neurological condition that had left him paralyzed from the waist down. He spoke of his determination to walk again and to continue making a difference in the community. He had been diagnosed with the condition after experiencing severe back pain while on holiday in Turkey the previous year.

Tributes have poured in from across the footballing community, with many recognizing Rennie's impact as a trailblazer. The Football Association (FA) released a statement acknowledging Rennie's passing, stating that he would "forever be remembered as a true trailblazer of the game." Sheffield United expressed their sadness at the news, acknowledging Rennie's popularity and pioneering role. Former Liverpool and Nottingham Forest striker Stan Collymore called Rennie "a pioneer, trailblazer, and a bloody good ref." The Sheffield and Hallamshire County Football Association said that Rennie "broke down barriers, shaped our football community and inspired generations to come."

Uriah Rennie's legacy extends far beyond his accomplishments on the football field. He was a role model, an advocate, and a champion for equality. His impact on the game and the community will be felt for generations to come.