It was once said that officiating in any sport was the worst job in the world. The pay may be pretty good, but when it comes to public perception, you end up in a lose-lose situation.
Even very good referees are criticized by certain fan groups. Their job is already difficult enough, plus they have to make split-second decisions while understanding all the rules and seeing everything happen very quickly. They never get glory for doing their job correctly. And once a reputation, especially a negative reputation, is established, it is impossible to regain trust.
Lamine Yamal intervenes after security stops young fan during Spain World Cup celebrations
Premier League umpire Anthony Taylor to retire after 2026 FIFA World Cup
Anthony Taylor knows that all too well. Perhaps that’s why Taylor announced on Tuesday that he would retire from refereeing at age 47. Taylor’s last referee match was the Round of 16 victory between Spain and Portugal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Taylor became one of the most recognizable faces among soccer referees in the early 2010s. Taylor, who started his career at the lower levels of English football, broke into the Premier League in 2010 and never looked back. He officiated several domestic finals as well as the 2024 Champions League final between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid.
Taylor has also made his presence felt at major international tournaments, playing roles at Euro 2020, Euro 2024, 2022 FIFA World Cup, and 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite his impressive career, Taylor was not always loved by the English club’s supporters.
Taylor’s announcement was followed by jubilant fans, with one Arsenal fan claiming “we have been freed from corruption” and another saying “he was always against Chelsea FC”.
