Tributes have been paid to Jamaica-born trailblazing football official, who has sadly passed away at the age of 65.
Uriah grew up in Sheffield and was an inspirational figure who managed to break barriers by becoming the first ever black referee in the English Premier League.
He was once described as the “fittest” match official in world football while taking charge of more than 300 top-flight matches between 1997 and 2008.
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Uriah Rennie revealed earlier this year that he had a rare health condition which has left him paralysed from the waist down.
The PGMOL chief refereeing officer, Howard Webb in his statement said: “Uri was not only a trailblazer who paved the way for many others after becoming the first black referee in the Premier League, he was a great person and a great referee who cared deeply about his community and helping people fulfil their potential.
“He was a strong influence on our refereeing group too, offering a calming presence and we shared many good times together. He will be sorely missed by us all but his legacy will live on.”
The Premier League on the other hand, said: “Uriah was a pioneering trailblazer whose legacy will live on, and continue to inspire future generations.”
Despite Uriah’s inspiring story, questions still needs to be asked of the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) who are often accused by Premier League fans of being a “northern white middle-aged men” cartel, why there is less representation from black and minority ethnic groups.
