Andre Marriner, English association football referee

Andre Marriner, born on January 1, 1971, is a distinguished English professional football referee. Hailing from Solihull in the West Midlands, his illustrious career in officiating has seen him ascend to the pinnacle of domestic and international football. He maintains a strong affiliation with the Birmingham County Football Association, a connection that highlights his foundational development and sustained presence within English football’s structured hierarchy.

Marriner's journey through the refereeing ranks culminated in a significant milestone in 2005 when he was promoted to the prestigious list of Select Group Referees. This elite cadre comprises the top professional officials in England, primarily appointed to oversee matches in the Premier League, the nation's premier football competition. Achieving this status is a clear testament to a referee's consistent high performance, demanding exceptional decision-making under pressure, peak physical fitness, and a comprehensive mastery of the Laws of the Game.

Beyond his significant domestic responsibilities, Andre Marriner also earned the esteemed title of a FIFA referee, serving on the international stage between 2009 and 2017. As a FIFA-badged official, he gained eligibility to officiate in a wide array of international matches, including World Cup qualifiers, international friendlies, and prestigious UEFA club competitions such as the Champions League and Europa League. This international recognition not only broadened his experience but also cemented his reputation as one of England's leading referees on the global stage, demonstrating his capability to manage high-stakes encounters across diverse footballing environments.

One of the most defining moments of Marriner's career occurred in May 2013, when he was appointed to officiate the FA Cup Final. This highly anticipated match, contested at the iconic Wembley Stadium between Wigan Athletic and Manchester City, represents a paramount achievement for a referee in English football. Presiding over the final of the world's oldest national football competition is a profound honour, signifying immense trust, vast experience, and an exemplary standing within the Football Association. His selection for this showpiece event unequivocally underscores his exceptional professionalism and unwavering consistency throughout his career.

Key Career Milestones for Andre Marriner

Frequently Asked Questions About Andre Marriner

Who is Andre Marriner?
Andre Marriner is an English professional football referee, born on January 1, 1971. He is well-known for his extensive career officiating in the Premier League and for his period as a FIFA international referee, based in Solihull, West Midlands.
What is a Select Group Referee in English football?
A Select Group Referee is an elite professional official in English football who primarily officiates matches in the Premier League. This designation indicates that the referee is among the top-tier of officials in the country, meeting rigorous standards of performance and integrity.
Did Andre Marriner officiate the FA Cup Final?
Yes, Andre Marriner had the distinct honour of officiating the FA Cup Final in May 2013. This match featured Wigan Athletic against Manchester City and is considered a crowning achievement for any English football referee.
When was Andre Marriner a FIFA international referee?
Andre Marriner held the status of a FIFA international referee from 2009 to 2017. This allowed him to officiate a variety of international matches, including World Cup qualifiers and major European club competitions like the Champions League and Europa League.