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Uriah Rennie has died at the age of 65(Image: PA Archive/PA Images)

The football world is mourning the loss of Uriah Rennie, the pioneering first black referee in the Premier League, who has passed away at 65.

Born in Jamaica and raised in Sheffield, Rennie became a respected figure in football, refereeing over 300 top-flight games since his first Premier League match in August 1997 when Derby faced Wimbledon.

The Sheffield and Hallamshire County Football Association confirmed the news on social media: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former chair and trailblazing referee, Uriah Rennie.



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.

"Our thoughts are with Uriah's family and friends at this difficult time." Among those also to pay tribute this evening were Sheffield's three clubs.

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Sheffield United wrote on X: "Sheffield United are saddened to learn of the passing of popular and trailblazing referee Uriah Rennie.

Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this time."

While Sheffield Wednesday described him as a 'pioneer' and Sheffield FC added that he was a 'local hero'.

Rennie's last match as a referee in the Premier League was in May 2008 when he oversaw Liverpool's victory over Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane.

Following his retirement from refereeing, Rennie turned his attention to development of the next generation of officials.

He became a leading voice for further diversity in football and refereeing particularly.


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