Howard Webb blows final whistle

Referee Howard Webb, who took charge of the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa final, has retired as an official, taking on the role of technical director for the organisation that over­sees refereeing in England.
Webb had stepped out onto the pitch with whistle and cards in hands for a quarter of a century, becoming the first Englishman to officiate at World Cup final in 36 years, and the first referee ever to do it in the same year as taking charge of the UEFA Champions League final. Domestically he had refereed over 500 games in the English Premier League since his first game in the top di­vision in 2003. “I am very excited to start this new chapter in my career after a wonderfully rewarding 25 years on the pitch. I have spent over a decade with the best seat in the house,” Webb said, whose role with the Professional Game Match Officials Limited will also include educating and informing the public on refereeing matters. The 43-year-old was present at Brazil 2014, taking charge of Co­lombia-Côte d’Ivoire and Brazil-Chile in the Round of 16, as part of appearing in 21 games at six FIFA tournaments. He also officiated at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, Canada 2007, the FIFA U-17 World Cup Nigeria 2009, the FIFA Confedera­tions Cup, South Africa 2009 and the FIFA Confederations Cup, Bra­zil 2013. “Today is a special and sad day because one of the best referees in the world has brought his career to a close. Howard was always serious and prepared for every game in a very professional way,” FIFA Head of Refereeing, Massimo Bussaca said. “Without passion and natural quality you can not reach the high­est level. Howard was always a great example for every young ref­eree. I am sure he will be able to transmit his knowledge and experi­ence to many referees in England.”