Uriah Rennie, a pioneering figure in English football and the first black referee to officiate in the Premier League, has passed away at the age of 65. Rennie’s death marks the loss of a trailblazer who not only broke barriers on the pitch but also made significant contributions off it, particularly in his local Sheffield community.
Born in Jamaica and relocating to Sheffield as a child, Rennie grew up in the Wybourn area of the city. His refereeing journey began in local football leagues in 1979, setting the stage for a remarkable career that would see him rise to the very top of English football officiating. In August 1997, Rennie made history by becoming the first black referee to take charge of a Premier League match, overseeing a game between Derby County and Wimbledon. Although that match was abandoned due to floodlight failure, it marked a significant milestone in the sport’s history.
Over the span of his career, Rennie officiated more than 300 top-flight matches, including 175 Premier League games, from 1997 until his retirement in 2008. His professionalism and fitness earned him a reputation as one of the finest referees in the game, with many considering him the fittest official in world football during his tenure. He also achieved FIFA listing in 2000 and joined the select group of professional referees in 2001, further cementing his status on the international stage.
Rennie’s influence extended far beyond the pitch. He was a committed campaigner for equality and inclusion in sport, mental health awareness, and tackling community deprivation. Since 1996, he served as a magistrate in Sheffield, demonstrating his dedication to public service. His community involvement included roles such as patron of Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity and St Luke’s Hospice, ambassador for The Children’s Hospital Charity, trustee at Voluntary Action Sheffield, and president of the Sheffield Federation of Schools Sports. Rennie was also the honorary president of Hallam FC, a Sheffield football club.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to sport and the local community, Rennie earned an MBA and a law degree. Sheffield Hallam University awarded him an Honorary Doctorate in 2023, acknowledging his distinguished service. In November 2024, Rennie was announced as the new chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University and was officially installed in this role during a ceremony on May 8, 2025. He expressed pride at beginning this new chapter, aiming to use his position to "open up opportunities to everyone."
Tragically, Rennie’s life was dramatically impacted by a rare neurological condition diagnosed in late 2024. While on holiday in Turkey, he experienced severe back pain, initially mistaking it for a minor issue. However, the condition rapidly worsened, leaving him paralysed from the waist down. He spent an arduous five months in hospital, including one month laid on his back and four months sitting in bed, before being discharged in February 2025. Doctors found a nodule pressing on his spine, and the condition was deemed inoperable.
Despite the severity of his illness, Rennie demonstrated remarkable resilience. He embarked on the challenging process of relearning how to walk, engaging in intensive physiotherapy and exercises to rebuild his strength. In interviews, he described the frustration of his sudden immobility but praised the support from family, friends, the hospital staff, and Sheffield Hallam University, describing them as "absolutely superb" and "exceptional." He candidly shared, "I have had to learn to move all over again, I'm retraining my legs. I can move my feet and I can stand with a frame attached to my wheelchair but I need to work on my glutes."
The football community and beyond have been deeply moved by Rennie’s passing, with tributes pouring in from clubs, colleagues, and public figures. The Football Association’s Refereeing Department called him "a true trailblazer of the game," expressing their sorrow and extending condolences to his family and friends. Sheffield and Hallamshire County Football Association stated, "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."
Local clubs Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday both expressed their sadness, highlighting Rennie’s popularity and pioneering role. Sheffield United posted on social media, "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." Sheffield Wednesday echoed similar sentiments, calling him "pioneering" and extending sympathies.
Rugby league side Sheffield Eagles also paid tribute, noting Rennie’s long-term support and his commitment to inclusive sport in South Yorkshire. They recognized his efforts in helping the club develop community engagement and create opportunities for all, affirming that his passion for sport transcended football.
Prominent figures in football have also weighed in. Former Liverpool and Nottingham Forest striker Stan Collymore described Rennie as "a pioneer, trailblazer and a bloody good ref," expressing his sorrow on social media. Leon Mann, co-founder of the Football Black List, called Rennie a "Black pioneering referee and leader in the game," emphasizing that "Uriah should never, ever be forgotten." Premier League assistant referee Akil Howson, who became the first black, Asian, or mixed heritage permanent referee in England’s top flight since Rennie, hailed him as "a true inspiration, role model & trailblazer," adding, "Your courage opened doors. Your legacy sparks the change we now begin to see."
Sheffield Central MP Abtisam Mohamed also shared her condolences, describing Rennie as "a dear friend and supporter to all communities," and noted the lasting legacy he left in grassroots sport. Councillor Nighat Basharat, who knew Rennie personally, called him "a true supporter of all communities and a kind soul who always encouraged me."
Rennie’s story is one of extraordinary achievement and resilience. From breaking racial barriers in one of the world’s most high-profile football leagues to serving his community tirelessly, he leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations. His courage in facing his debilitating illness with determination and grace further underscores the character of a man who dedicated his life to sport, equality, and service.
As the football world mourns, Rennie’s impact remains indelible—both in the history books and in the hearts of those he touched. His role as Sheffield Hallam University’s chancellor, albeit brief, symbolized his commitment to opening doors and fostering opportunity beyond the pitch. Indeed, Uriah Rennie’s journey from a young boy in Sheffield to a trailblazing referee and community leader exemplifies the power of perseverance and the profound influence one individual can have in sport and society.
Though his passing leaves a void, the foundations he laid in football refereeing and community advocacy continue to inspire progress and inclusion, ensuring that his legacy endures well beyond his years.
