Uriah Rennie Dies: Premier League Referee Obituary
- Uriah Rennie, the Premier League's first Black referee, has died at the age of 65.
- Sheffield & Hallamshire County Football Association released a statement calling Rennie a "trailblazing referee" who "broke down barriers" and "inspired generations to come."
- He began refereeing local football in 1979 and made history in 1997 when he officiated a top-flight match between Derby County and Wimbledon.
Uriah Rennie, the Premier League’s first Black referee, has died at 65, leaving behind a legacy of trailblazing leadership and unwavering commitment too equality. From 1997 to 2008, Rennie officiated over 300 matches, setting a precedent for inclusivity in professional football. This obituary commemorates his pivotal role in breaking down barriers, inspiring countless individuals, and championing mental health awareness. Born in Jamaica, Rennie’s impact extended beyond the pitch; he was also a magistrate and actively involved in community work, receiving an honorary doctorate.News Directory 3 recognizes the profound influence Rennie had on the sport.Discover what’s next for his lasting impact on the world of football.
Pioneering Premier League referee Uriah Rennie dies at 65
Updated June 08, 2025
Uriah Rennie, the Premier League’s first Black referee, has died at the age of 65. Rennie officiated more than 300 games, including 175 Premier League matches, between 1997 and 2008.
Sheffield & Hallamshire County Football Association released a statement calling Rennie a “trailblazing referee” who “broke down barriers” and “inspired generations to come.”
Born in Jamaica, Rennie moved to Sheffield as a child. He began refereeing local football in 1979 and made history in 1997 when he officiated a top-flight match between Derby County and Wimbledon.
Leon Mann, co-founder of the Football Black List, described Rennie as a “pioneering referee and leader” and noted the debt owed to those who “push open the doors.”
rennie had been a magistrate in Sheffield since 1996 and actively campaigned for equality and inclusion in sport, mental health awareness, and tackling deprivation. He held a master’s degree in business administration and law. Sheffield Hallam University awarded him an honorary doctorate in November 2023 for his contributions to sport and community work.In May, Rennie was appointed chancellor of the university.
Recently, Rennie revealed he was learning to walk again after a rare condition caused paralysis from the waist down.
What’s next
Rennie’s legacy as a barrier-breaking figure in English football will continue to inspire future generations of referees and athletes.