Referee Anthony Taylor: My family does not attend matches due to threats.

Referee Anthony Taylor's family has not attended matches for two years due to abuse

According to The Sun: Referee Anthony Taylor revealed that his family has not been to any matches in the last two years due to severe abuse.

He partially blames Jose Mourinho for this difficult situation that led to their decision.

The 46-year-old Taylor, who officiated the 2023 UEFA Europa League final where Sevilla defeated Mourinho's Roma in a penalty shootout, discussed his personal hardships. He showed 15 yellow cards, including one to Mourinho, and added 25 minutes of stoppage time but did not make any serious mistakes.

After the match, Mourinho called Taylor 'f***ing disgrace', and they had a meeting in the parking lot later.

While at Budapest Airport, Taylor and his family became targets for angry Roma fans. One fan even attempted to throw a chair at them while the police protected the referee and his relatives.

Taylor's first public comment on the incident

Taylor publicly commented on this horrifying situation for the first time. He shared his thoughts with BBC Sport:

“This is the worst situation I've faced regarding abuse.”

 

“Not only because I was traveling with family members, but it also highlights the impact people's behavior has on others.”

The referee noted that he feels great disappointment and anger, although there were no serious mistakes during the match.

 

“Why this is acceptable, I don't know – after all, these people wouldn't want someone saying such things to them.”

Taylor also added:

“They haven't attended a single match since then.”

Over 17 seasons in the Premier League and at three major international tournaments, he has faced significant pressure and criticism.

Culture in football

Taylor said:

“Perfection does not exist.”

He emphasized that constant criticism can negatively affect referees' mental health.

EPA

Taylor concluded his thoughts by expressing confidence that one refereeing mistake should not define an entire football season.

Twitter @tvdellosport The situation surrounding Anthony Taylor raises important questions about the culture of abuse in football. His experience shows how negative fan behavior can impact the lives not only of athletes but also of their families. Such incidents highlight the need for change in football culture and the responsibility of fans.