Leadership & Biography

Samuel Barrott: Rising Star of English Refereeing

From Local Pitches to Premier League Spotlight – The Inspiring Journey of a Young Referee

Introduction

Samuel Barrott has become a respected name in the world of football refereeing, earning recognition not just in England but also on the international stage. With a career path that began far from the glitz of stadium lights, Barrott has shown resilience, consistency, and a strong understanding of the modern game. His journey from grassroots officiating to the Premier League highlights a well-earned place among the elite referees.

In an era where referees are often under scrutiny due to VAR and high-stakes decisions, Samuel Barrott stands out for his calm temperament and clear command of the rules. His ability to manage high-pressure matches and maintain respect from both players and coaches has positioned him as a rising star in English football. His career continues to progress with international appointments, marking a significant achievement for a referee still in his early 30s.

Early Life and Background

Born around 1992 or 1993 in Yorkshire, England, Samuel Barrott grew up in a region known for its football heritage. From a young age, Barrott was passionate about the sport and joined Halifax Town at the youth level. Like many aspiring footballers, he dreamed of playing professionally. However, a severe injury cut his playing ambitions short before he could make it to the senior level.

Instead of stepping away from the sport entirely, Barrott decided to transition into officiating, showing maturity and love for football beyond personal ambition. At the age of 15, he began refereeing local matches. This early experience not only gave him confidence but also laid the foundation for a long and evolving refereeing career. His ability to adapt early on is a testament to his dedication.

Career Milestones and Development

Samuel Barrott’s rise through the ranks of English football was built on consistent performances and a professional attitude. After years of officiating in the lower leagues, he was added to the National List of Referees, making him eligible to referee English Football League (EFL) matches. He became a full-time EFL referee by the end of the 2019–20 season, handling League One and League Two fixtures with increasing responsibility.

His consistent officiating led to a promotion to Select Group 2 before the 2023–24 season, which meant he started managing Championship-level games—a significant step up in visibility and challenge. These matches are known for their intensity, fan engagement, and high stakes, and Barrott’s ability to manage them smoothly helped solidify his standing as a capable and calm match official ready for bigger stages.

Breakthrough into the Premier League

Barrott’s big breakthrough came on October 7, 2023, when he made his Premier League debut in the match between Fulham and Sheffield United. It was a career-defining moment for any referee, signaling that he was trusted to handle the country’s top-tier matches. Premier League games come with global audiences, immense pressure, and media scrutiny, and Barrott showed he could manage it with the professionalism expected of elite referees.

Following a successful debut season, Barrott was promoted to Select Group 1 at the start of the 2024–25 season, placing him among the regular Premier League officials. During that season, he officiated more than 20 matches, including high-profile clashes between big six clubs such as Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United. His steady presence on the field and ability to maintain authority without aggression set him apart.

International Recognition

In December 2024, Samuel Barrott’s hard work paid off when he was selected for the FIFA and UEFA International Referees List. This milestone allows him to officiate international friendlies, UEFA Europa League fixtures, and potentially Champions League or World Cup qualifying matches. Becoming an international referee is one of the highest honors in the officiating world, and Barrott’s inclusion reflects his reputation and professionalism.

His addition to the list meant he replaced more senior officials and represented a younger generation of referees who understand the demands of modern football. International refereeing requires not only rules knowledge but also the cultural sensitivity and communication skills to handle teams from across the globe. Barrott has already demonstrated that he possesses the discipline, awareness, and flexibility needed at this level.

Refereeing Style and Professional Approach

Barrott is widely known for his calm, communicative approach on the pitch. His body language is composed, his decisions are clear, and he speaks with authority without being confrontational. He emphasizes understanding the rhythm of the match, knowing when to intervene, and allowing the game to flow naturally—qualities that are increasingly valued in today’s football.

He also stands out for his fitness level, often praised for keeping up with the play, which helps in making close calls more accurately. His proactive use of VAR and teamwork with assistant referees shows he understands modern officiating demands. Samuel Barrott’s presence ensures games are fair, well-managed, and less likely to spiral into chaos, earning him respect from players and managers alike.

Challenges and Criticisms

Despite his success, Barrott’s career has not been free from controversy. A notable incident came during a Premier League clash between Everton and Liverpool in 2025, where decisions regarding a possible red card and an offside goal were questioned. As with many referees in the VAR era, he was thrust into the spotlight, with fans and pundits debating his calls.

To his credit, Barrott handled the backlash professionally. He continued to perform consistently in subsequent matches, demonstrating that one difficult night does not define a referee’s career. The PGMOL later reviewed the match and acknowledged some VAR miscommunications, but maintained Barrott’s role was executed within protocol. His ability to learn and grow from criticism reflects his maturity and resilience.

Achievements and Goals

Among Barrott’s standout achievements is his appointment to the 2024 League One Play-Off Final—a match known for its intensity and promotion stakes. Refereeing such a high-stakes game reflects the trust that officiating authorities have in his decision-making and game management.

Looking ahead, Samuel Barrott likely aims to referee in major UEFA tournaments like the European Championships or even the FIFA World Cup. His current trajectory, combined with his youth and professionalism, makes this a realistic goal. As the Premier League continues to evolve, Barrott’s presence among its most trusted officials seems secure for years to come.

Personal Life

Despite growing fame in football circles, Barrott keeps his personal life private. There is no public record of his marital status, children, or parents, and he has not shared much about his hobbies or interests off the pitch. This discretion allows him to focus entirely on his professional commitments without outside distractions.

It’s clear that refereeing is not just a job for Samuel Barrott—it’s a passion. From the moment he chose to switch from player to referee at just 15, he has poured dedication into the craft. His silence on personal matters allows fans and the media to focus solely on his officiating skills and accomplishments.

Salary and Net Worth

Though exact figures are not confirmed, referees in Select Group 1 typically earn a base salary of £120,000 to £200,000 per year, with additional fees per match and potential bonuses for key fixtures. As a newly promoted Premier League and international referee, Samuel Barrott is likely within this income bracket.

His net worth, while not publicly estimated, may range from £300,000 to £500,000 based on his years in officiating, match bonuses, and potential media or UEFA assignments. While referees do not usually pursue the spotlight for wealth, their steady earnings reflect the demanding nature of their profession.

FAQ

Who is Samuel Barrott?
Samuel Barrott is an English professional referee from Yorkshire, currently officiating in the Premier League and international matches under FIFA and UEFA.

When did Samuel Barrott begin refereeing?
He started at the age of 15 after a youth football injury ended his playing career.

Is Samuel Barrott on the FIFA list?
Yes, as of December 2024, he is officially recognized as a FIFA-listed international referee.

Has he refereed Premier League games?
Yes, he made his Premier League debut in 2023 and was promoted to Select Group 1 for the 2024–25 season.

What is his refereeing style?
Barrott is known for a calm, composed approach, strong fitness, and effective communication, often praised for letting the game flow naturally.

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