Premier League referee Anthony Taylor has announced his retirement from elite officiating at the age of 47, bringing to a close a career that spanned 831 professional matches.
Taylor confirmed the decision following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where his final assignment was the Round of 16 clash between Portugal and Spain on July 6, won 1-0 by Spain. He called officiating at the elite level “an immense privilege,” while noting “the pressure is intense and the scrutiny is constant”.
Over his career, Taylor refereed 433 Premier League games and became one of England’s most trusted officials. He was selected for multiple major tournaments, including the 2022 World Cup, Euro 2024, and the 2026 World Cup where he also officiated Senegal vs Iraq in the group stage.
His portfolio includes two FA Cup Finals in 2017 and 2020, the 2023 UEFA Europa League Final between Sevilla and Roma, and more than 41 Champions League matches. He also set a Premier League record with 14 yellow cards in Chelsea vs Bournemouth.
Howard Webb, Chief Refereeing Officer, praised Taylor as “one of the best and most successful officials that English football has ever produced”. Taylor thanked his assistants, colleagues, family and friends for their support throughout the career.
Related posts:
Referee Antony Taylor Attacked By AS Roma Fans
Vihiga Bullets Head Coach George Owoko Calls Out Referees’ Board After Poor Officiating Against Nairobi United
Lionel Messi Pays Tribute to Ángel Di María, Who Retires from International Football
Former Barcelona Midfielder Andres Iniesta Retires From Football
