Uriah Rennie, the pioneering referee who became the Premier League’s first Black official, died on Sunday at age 65. Known for his commanding presence on the pitch and trailblazing career, Rennie officiated over 300 top-flight matches, including 175 in the Premier League, from 1997 to 2008. His death, just months after he revealed he was learning to walk again following a rare neurological condition, has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the football world.
A Historic Career in Football
Born in Jamaica and raised in Sheffield’s Wybourn area, Rennie began refereeing in local leagues in 1979 before making history in 1997 by officiating a Premier League match between Derby County and Wimbledon. His 11-year top-flight career saw him take charge of high-stakes games, famously issuing a red card to Roy Keane and saving Jason McAteer from a confrontation with the fiery midfielder. Once dubbed the “fittest referee in world football” for his martial arts background and physical prowess, Rennie was a respected figure known for his no-nonsense approach.
The Sheffield & Hallamshire County Football Association, where Rennie served as chair, called him a “trailblazer” who “broke down barriers.” Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday mourned his loss, with United saying they were “saddened to lose a popular figure” and Wednesday hailing him as “pioneering.” Fans and colleagues echoed this sentiment, with commentator Alan Biggs posting on social media, “A humble likeable man with quiet unflappable courage.” Rennie’s influence extended beyond the pitch, as he championed equality and inclusion in sport.
Battling Health Challenges
Rennie’s final months were marked by a courageous fight against a rare neurological condition that left him paralyzed from the waist down in 2024. He spent five months in hospital, initially thinking he’d “slept funny” on a sun lounger, only to learn of spinal cord compression. “I spent a month laid on my back and another four sitting in bed,” he told BBC News in April, sharing his determination to walk again. Despite his condition, he took on the role of Chancellor at Sheffield Hallam University in May 2025, aiming to inspire students and promote education access for all communities.
His resilience shone through as he spoke of creating a “legacy for others to stand on,” a nod to his historic role as the first Black Premier League referee. Posts online praised his spirit, with one fan writing, “Uriah faced every challenge with grit rest in peace legend.” His passing has left a void in Sheffield, where he was also honorary president of Hallam FC.
A Lasting Impact
Rennie’s death comes as football sees more diversity in refereeing, with Sam Allison becoming the first Black Premier League referee since Rennie in 2023. His legacy as a pioneer who opened doors for others remains strong. The FA Refereeing Department called him a “highly respected figure” whose influence endures. Social media posts reflect his impact, with one user noting, “Uriah took no nonsense but had a heart of gold RIP.”