Premier League referee Taylor retires from football and teases what's next

Premier League referee Anthony Taylor has announced his retirement. The Englishman has hung up his whistle after officiating Spain's 1-0 win over Portugal in the last 16 of this summer's World Cup.

The 47-year-old has called time on his career after over two decades and 831 matches. Taylor officiated in the Premier League for 16 seasons, taking charge of no fewer than 432 top-flight games.

The experienced ref also officiated the 2024 Champions League final between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid at Wembley Stadium. But Taylor will no longer referee in the professional game - bowing out after the World Cup.

The now former top-flight official announced the news in a post on his LinkedIn account on Tuesday. He said: “The final whistle has blown – moving on to the next chapter.

“After 16 unforgettable seasons officiating at the highest level of English and international football, I have decided that the time has come to retire from elite refereeing. Looking back, I do so with immense pride and gratitude. It has been the greatest privilege to officiate in the Premier League, across FIFA and UEFA competitions, and on some of football’s biggest occasions. Every match, every challenge and every experience has shaped not only my career but also the person I have become.

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“Elite refereeing is about far more than the ninety minutes on the pitch. It demands commitment, resilience, preparation and sacrifice, but it has given me memories, friendships and experiences that I will cherish for the rest of my life. No referee achieves success alone. I have been incredibly fortunate to work alongside so many outstanding colleagues throughout my career. To each of you, thank you. It has been an honour to share this journey together.

“A special thank you must go to Gary Beswick and Adam Nunn . What “Team Tayls” has achieved together makes me immensely proud, and I could not have wished for better colleagues or better friends. Your professionalism, loyalty and unwavering support have meant more than words can express.

“It hasn’t always been easy – the pressure is intense and the scutiny is constant – but it has been an immense privilege to be at the heart of the game I love. Football is built on passion, and whilst decisions will always be debated, it has been an honour to serve the game with integrity and professionalism.

“Most importantly, thank you to my family and friends. Your love, patience and unwavering support have been my foundation throughout this journey. The sacrifices you have made alongside me have never gone unnoticed, and I simply would not have achieved any of this without you.

“To everyone who has been part of this remarkable journey, thank you. It has been the privilege of a lifetime. The time is now right to step aside and look forward to transitioning to the next chapter of my career.”

Hinting at future plans in the public eye, Taylor confirmed he will now be represented by barristers Trinity Chambers and added: "To follow what comes next, follow me on Instagram… @anthonytaylor.official."

Taylor is one of several officials to have retired from English football this summer. Referee Darren Bond and assistant referees Natalie Aspinall and Marc Perry also hung up their whistles after the 2025/26 season concluded.