Uriah Rennie, a pioneering figure in English football and the first Black referee in the Premier League, has died at the age of 65. The news was announced on June 8, 2025, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the footballing world and beyond, celebrating his contributions to the sport and his impact as a trailblazer.
Born in Jamaica on October 23, 1959, Rennie moved to Sheffield, South Yorkshire, at the age of six. His journey in football began as a referee in 1979, officiating in local leagues before progressing to the Northern Premier League. He was appointed to the Football League list of referees in 1994. On August 13, 1997, Rennie made history when he took charge of a Premier League match between Derby County and Wimbledon, becoming the first Black referee in the league. The match, played at Derby's new Pride Park Stadium, was unfortunately abandoned due to a floodlight failure, but Rennie's presence marked a significant moment in the sport's history.
During his career, Rennie officiated in over 300 top-flight games, including 175 Premier League matches, earning a reputation as a no-nonsense and confident official. He became a FIFA referee in 2000 and joined the Select Group of professional referees the following year. Known for his fitness, Keith Hackett, former head of the Professional Game Match Officials Board (PGMOL), once described him as "the fittest referee we have ever seen on the national and world scene." Rennie retired from the FIFA list in 2004, after reaching the compulsory age of 45, but returned to active refereeing in November 2007.
Beyond his accomplishments on the pitch, Rennie was a respected figure in his community. He was a magistrate in Sheffield since 1996, and actively campaigned for equality and inclusion in sport, mental health awareness, and tackling deprivation. In November 2023, Sheffield Hallam University awarded him an honorary doctorate for his community work, particularly with the Sheffield Federation for School Sports and Weston Park Hospital. He was set to become the chancellor of the university and was installed in May 2025.
In April 2025, Rennie revealed that he was learning to walk again after a rare neurological condition left him paralyzed from the waist down. He spoke to the BBC about his rehabilitation and his determination to overcome the challenges he faced. Despite his health issues, Rennie remained committed to his new role as chancellor, expressing his desire to "open up opportunities to everyone."
News of Rennie's death prompted widespread tributes. The Sheffield and Hallamshire County Football Association expressed their sadness, recognizing him as a "trailblazing referee" who "broke down barriers, shaped our football community and inspired generations to come." Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday, also paid tribute to Rennie. Stan Collymore, a former player, hailed Rennie as "a pioneer, trailblazer and a bloody good ref."
Uriah Rennie's legacy extends far beyond his achievements as a referee. He was a role model and an inspiration, who paved the way for future generations of Black officials in football. His contributions to the sport and his community will be remembered for years to come.
