Tag: Rennie

Uriah Rennie: First black Premier League referee dies aged 65
8 June 2025 Off

Uriah Rennie: First black Premier League referee dies aged 65

By Total Football News

Uriah Rennie, the Premier League’s first black referee, has died aged 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 & Hallamshire County Football Association statement.

“Uriah made history as the Premier League’s first Black referee, officiating over 300 top-flight

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Ex-Premier League referee Uriah Rennie ‘learning to walk again’
3 April 2025 Off

Ex-Premier League referee Uriah Rennie ‘learning to walk again’

By Total Football News

Rennie made history in 1997 when he officiated a match between Derby County and Wimbledon, becoming the top division’s first black referee.

Tall in stature and a kick-boxing and aikido expert, protesting players rapidly discovered he was more than comfortable standing his ground during arguments.

A magistrate in Sheffield since 1996, he has campaigned for issues such as improving equality and inclusion in sport, supporting mental health and tackling deprivation.

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