Trailblazing Premier League official Sian Massey-Ellis retires and instantly lands new job

Premier League assistant referee Sian Massey-Ellis has announced her immediate retirement from officiating.

The trailblazing sideline official will now begin work as the Football Association’s (FA) Senior Manager of Women Referees.

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Massey-Ellis’ new role centres on supporting and developing the ever-growing pool of female officials in addition to inspiring the next generation.

Massey-Ellis: ‘Greatest honour to serve the game’

“From standing beneath the Premier League sign before my very first match to officiating at FIFA World Cups, UEFA European Championships, Champions League finals and across domestic fixtures and competitions in England, football has taken me on a journey beyond anything I could ever have imagined,” Massey-Ellis said in a statement.

“Every opportunity has been a privilege and one I have never taken for granted.

“Throughout my career, football has challenged me, tested my resilience and pushed me to become a better professional and person.

“While there have been unforgettable highs and difficult moments, what I will treasure most are the people and experiences that have defined my journey.

“I am incredibly grateful to Pro Ref, The FA, FIFA and UEFA for the opportunities they gave me, as well as every coach, mentor, colleague and match official I have had the privilege of working alongside.

“Above all, I owe an enormous debt of thanks to my family, whose unwavering support, sacrifices and belief made every achievement possible.

“Although I am stepping away from the touchline, I am not stepping away from football.

“If my journey has helped change perceptions, open doors or inspire even one young person to believe they belong in the game, then I will consider that one of my greatest achievements.

“I’m excited by the opportunity to help support, develop and inspire the next generation of match officials, giving something back to a sport that has done so much for me.

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“As I prepare for one final walk onto the pitch, I leave with nothing but gratitude. It has been the greatest honour to serve the game I love and represent English officiating.

“To the young girl who simply loved refereeing and dreamed of reaching the very top – we did it.

“Thank you, football.”

Pro Ref Chief Refereeing Officer Howard Webb added Massey-Ellis ‘has been nothing short of a powerhouse’ over the course of her officiating career.

“She has done us proud time and time again – domestically and on the international stage, breaking multiple barriers and setting the standard for those coming through in her footsteps,” Webb added.

History-making

Massey-Ellis hangs up the flag having become just the second female to be an assistant referee in Premier League history, with Wendy Toms the first to do so.

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She went on to be the first female involved in the men’s FA Cup final and the Community Shield.

Massey-Ellis was also a trailblazer internationally, becoming the first female selected to officiate a men’s European match when she was an assistant referee for a Europa League fixture in 2019.

She also represented England at four UEFA Women’s Euro tournaments as well as the 2019 and 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cups.

The 40-year-old’s vast achievements on the sideline earned her an MBE in 2017 for her services to football.