Uriah Rennie, the first Black referee in Premier League history and a pioneering figure in English football, has died at the age of 65.
Between 1997 and 2008, Rennie officiated over 300 professional matches, including 175 in the Premier League. His passing has prompted widespread tributes from across the football world, celebrating his groundbreaking role in the sport and his influence beyond the pitch.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former chair and trailblazing referee, Uriah Rennie,” said the Sheffield & Hallamshire County Football Association in a statement. “Uriah made history as the Premier League’s first Black referee. He broke down barriers, shaped our football community, and inspired future generations.”
Born in Jamaica, Rennie moved to Sheffield as a child and was raised in the Wybourn area. He began his refereeing career in 1979 at the grassroots level and steadily rose through the ranks. He made history in 1997 when he officiated a Premier League match between Derby County and Wimbledon.
Leon Mann, co-founder of the Football Black List, paid tribute to Rennie, saying, “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 his family and friends.”
Rennie’s impact extended well beyond football. He served as a magistrate in Sheffield from 1996 and was a passionate advocate for social justice, campaigning for equality, inclusion in sport, mental health awareness, and tackling deprivation.
Academically accomplished, Rennie held a master’s degree in business administration and law. In November 2023, Sheffield Hallam University awarded him an honorary doctorate for his contributions to sport and his service to communities in South Yorkshire.
In a moving recent interview, Rennie revealed he was relearning to walk after being left paralysed from the waist down by a rare medical condition.
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