Uriah Rennie, First Black Premier League Ref, Dies at 65

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    SHEFFIELD, England — The football community mourns the loss of Uriah Rennie, the pioneering Black referee in the Premier League, who has passed away at the age of 65. His contribution to the sport and his groundbreaking career have left a lasting impact. On Sunday, the Sheffield and Hallamshire County Football Association expressed their sorrow over his passing. “We deeply mourn the loss of Uriah Rennie, our former chair, and a barrier-breaking referee,” they announced.

    Rennie made history by becoming the first Black referee in the Premier League, officiating over 300 matches at the highest level from 1997 to 2008. His career in the Premier League began with a significant milestone in August 1997 when Derby played against Wimbledon. However, the match was cut short due to a stadium lighting issue.

    Born in Jamaica but raised in Sheffield, northern England, Rennie’s impact on the sport extended beyond the pitch. He broke numerous barriers within football, significantly influencing the community and encouraging future generations to pursue their dreams regardless of their background.

    Sadly, Rennie revealed in an April interview with BBC News that during a holiday in Turkey the previous year, he experienced severe back pain. Medical examinations uncovered an inoperable neurological condition, which ultimately led to him using a wheelchair.