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Premier League referee Anthony Taylor has revealed that his family no longer accompanies him to high-profile matches due to the relentless abuse he faces, describing one incident in particular as the “worst situation” of his career.
In an interview with BBC Sport, the 46-year-old official recounted being targeted by angry fans following the 2023 Europa League final in Budapest, where Roma lost to Sevilla on penalties after a heated match in which Taylor issued 13 yellow cards.
Then-Roma manager Jose Mourinho publicly criticised Taylor and later verbally confronted him in a car park, calling his performance a “disgrace.” Mourinho was subsequently banned for four matches by UEFA.
The day after the final, Taylor was harassed by Roma supporters at an airport. A chair and drinks were thrown in his direction before he was guided to safety.
Reflecting on the incident, Taylor said, “Not only because I was travelling with family members at the time, but it also highlights the impact of people’s behaviour on others. It makes you reflect on whether you made a mistake travelling with your family in the first place.”
Taylor, who officiated at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, also discussed the increasing pressures on referees, particularly with the introduction of VAR.
“The amount of scrutiny and the amount of analysis and chat around Premier League football means everybody has a quest for perfection. In reality, perfection doesn’t exist. We’re expecting referees to get every decision right,” he said.
Asked whether he had considered quitting, Taylor admitted there had been moments of doubt. “There’s certainly been moments — and I won’t be alone in this — moments where you are thinking, ‘Is it worth it?’ And certainly, moments where you’re thinking, ‘What’s being said is completely unfair.’”
Despite the challenges, Taylor emphasised his love for the job.
“When it comes down to it, it’s one of the best jobs in the world. You’re right in the centre of the action in the most exciting league in the world.”
