At 42, the ex-firefighter oversaw Luton’s victorious 3-2 battle against Sheffield United, marking a historic moment as the first black man to referee a Premier League match since 2008. Sam Allison broke an important barrier and ceiling, becoming the first black referee in England’s top division since Uriah Rennie in 2008.
While mostly avoiding controversy, a contentious corner decision preceding United’s own goal by Jack Robinson stirred debate. Allison issued five bookings but refrained from sending any players off. His judgment calls on Sheffield United’s second goal went through VAR scrutiny before being confirmed.
Sam Allison Career Growth
In 2020, Allison made history as the first black official across English football’s top four divisions. His ascent continued with a Championship promotion at the onset of the 2023–24 season.
His introduction to the Premier League started as a fourth official during Brighton’s triumph over Chelsea in October 2022. Now, he’s set to officiate a top-flight game, a milestone marked by BAMRef, an organization supporting black, Asian, and mixed-heritage referees. BAMRef provides support, mentoring, counseling, and guidance to these referees.
“This achievement aligns with a larger drive to diversify officiating” echoed Howard Webb, PGMOL’s chief, aiming to elevate more black officials to elite levels.
Beyond officiating, Allison boasts a footballing background, having played for clubs like Swindon Town, Bristol City, Bournemouth, and Exeter City. Transitioning to refereeing twelve years ago, he initially juggled his duties with firefighting before committing full-time to officiating.
Allison’s breakthrough follows Rebecca Welch’s historic feat as the Premier League’s first female referee, underlining the inclusive direction of refereeing appointments. At 40 years old, she oversaw Fulham’s match against Burnley at Craven Cottage, issuing three yellow cards.
Ascending from university and Sunday league games, Welch made history as the first woman to referee an EFL match in April 2021. Her achievements extended to officiating a men’s FA Cup fixture in January 2022 and serving as the inaugural female fourth official during Manchester United’s 1-0 win at Fulham in November.