Premier League ref Anthony Taylor keeps family away from matches due to abuse

Premier League referee Anthony Taylor shared that his relatives refrain from going to major matches because of the ongoing stream of hostility directed at him.

In a discussion with BBC Sport, the English referee recounted the “most challenging instance” he experienced, when he was approached aggressively by upset Roma supporters after the 2023 Europa League final held in Budapest.

The Italian team was defeated by Sevilla through penalties following a contentious match, during which Taylor issued a total of 13 yellow cards.

At the time, Roma manager Jose Mourinho criticized Taylor during his post-game press conference and then launched an abusive tirade at him in a parking lot, calling his officiating a “disgrace.”
“It makes you reconsider whether it was a mistake to bring your family along in the first place.”

Taylor, who served as a referee in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, expressed that the implementation of VAR has increased the pressure on game officials.

“The level of examination, along with the discussions surrounding Premier League football, drives everyone to strive for flawlessness,” he noted.

“In truth, flawlessness is unattainable. We are expecting referees to make every call spot on.”

When asked if he had ever thought about leaving the officiating profession, Taylor replied, “There have definitely been times — and I’m not the only one — there have been certain instances when you wonder, ‘Is this really worth it?’”

“And there are certainly times when you feel, ‘What’s being said is utterly unfair.’”

However, he affirmed that despite these difficulties, he still has a passion for his role.

“When it comes down to it, this is one of the finest occupations globally. You are right in the thick of the action in the most thrilling league around."

The Portuguese coach received a ban for four matches from UEFA, the governing organization of European football.

The next day, as Taylor walked through an airport, he became the target of Italian club fans.

Items such as a chair and beverages were thrown in his direction before he was escorted to a secure location.

At 46 years old, the referee disclosed that his family members no longer accompany him to prominent games.

“That’s definitely the most severe situation I’ve faced regarding mistreatment,” he remarked.

“Not only because I had family with me at that time, but it also underscores how people's actions can affect others.”