Uriah Rennie, the first black Premier League referee, has died at the age of 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 and 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.
The Premier League is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Uriah Rennie. As the first black referee in the Premier League, Uriah was a pioneering trailblazer whose legacy will live on, continuing to inspire future generations.
— Premier League (@premierleague) June 9, 2025
Our thoughts are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/1rlxbzuF2g
"Our thoughts are with Uriah's family and friends at this difficult time."
Rennie recently revealed he was learning to walk again after a rare condition left him paralysed from the waist down.
Born in Jamaica, Rennie grew up in Sheffield and became a FIFA-listed referee in 2000.
In November 2023 he was awarded an honorary doctorate by Sheffield Hallam University for his distinguished contributions to sport and his work with South Yorkshire communities.
The Premier League said in a statement: “The Premier League is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Uriah Rennie.
“As the first black referee in the Premier League, Uriah was a pioneering trailblazer whose legacy will live on, continuing to inspire future generations.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Additional reporting: Press Association
