BBC · Jun 8, 2025
First black Premier League referee Rennie dies aged 65
Image caption, In 1997 Uriah Rennie became the first black referee to take charge of a Premier League matchUriah Rennie, the Premier League's first black referee, has died aged 65.
Rennie officiated more than 300 games between 1997 and 2008, including 175 Premier League matches.
"We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former chair and trailblazing referee, Uriah Rennie," said a Sheffield & Hallamshire County Football Association statement.
"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."