Anthony Taylor has brought his two-decade career as a professional football referee to an end, citing the intense pressure associated with the profession as a major factor behind his decision.
The 47-year-old English official announced his immediate retirement after officiating 831 matches during a career that saw him rise from the Football League to the highest levels of domestic and international football.
Taylor’s final assignment came at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he refereed Spain’s 1-0 victory over Portugal in the Round of 16 on July 6.
His professional refereeing journey began with his appointment to the Football League referees’ list at the start of the 2006/07 season.
He earned promotion to the Premier League in 2010 and went on to take charge of 432 matches in England’s top flight.
Taylor also officiated every major domestic cup final in England, cementing his reputation as one of the country’s most experienced match officials.
In total, he refereed 668 professional matches in English football.
Before taking up refereeing on a full-time basis, Taylor worked as a prison officer.
His retirement marks the end of a distinguished career that spanned more than 20 years and included some of the biggest fixtures in English and international football.
