Veteran English referee Anthony Taylor has announced his retirement from professional officiating, bringing an end to a distinguished 20-year refereeing career.
The 47-year-old confirmed his decision on Tuesday, saying it was the right time to step away after years of officiating at the highest level of world football.
Taylor oversaw 831 matches during his career, including 432 Premier League games. His final assignment came earlier this month when Spain defeated Portugal 1-0 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16.
Having joined the Premier League referees’ list in 2010, Taylor went on to officiate at the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups as well as the 2020 and 2024 UEFA European Championships.
Reflecting on his career, Taylor admitted that the pressure on referees had become increasingly demanding.
“Officiating at the elite level has been an immense privilege, but the pressure is intense, and the scrutiny is constant. The time is now right to step aside and look forward to transitioning to the next chapter of my career,” he said.
He also expressed gratitude to his assistants, fellow referees, family and friends for supporting him throughout his career.
“Most importantly, I want to thank my family and friends for their unwavering support throughout the immense sacrifices this career has demanded,” Taylor added.
Before becoming a full-time referee, Taylor worked as a prison officer. He joined the English Football League referees’ list during the 2006/07 season before earning promotion to the Premier League four years later.
One of the most controversial moments of his career came after the 2023 UEFA Europa League final between Roma and Sevilla, when then-Roma manager José Mourinho publicly criticised his performance and later confronted him after the match. Taylor and his family were also subjected to abuse from some Roma supporters at Budapest Airport following the final.
Despite the challenges, Taylor leaves the game as one of England’s most experienced and respected referees.
