Akil Howson is on the brink of making history as the inaugural black match official to preside over an FA Cup final in the tournament's 154-year legacy. The upcoming showdown at Wembley, scheduled for 16 May, will see Howson serving alongside referee Darren England as one of the two assistant referees when Chelsea face Manchester City.
Howson's journey to this landmark appointment began in August 2023, when he broke a 15‑year hiatus by becoming the Premier League's first permanent black official since Uriah Rennie. His selection for the FA Cup final reflects the broader transformation taking place within English football, where the officiating ranks are becoming increasingly representative of the diverse communities that support the game. Statistical data underscores this shift. Currently, more than seven per cent of referees and assistant referees working in the men's and women's professional tiers identify as black, Asian, or of mixed heritage.
This figure represents a three‑fold increase compared to the proportion recorded in 2022, highlighting the effectiveness of recent inclusion initiatives and recruitment drives at both grassroots and elite levels. The decision to appoint Darren England as the central referee for the final also carries its own narrative of redemption and professional growth. England, who first entered the Premier League refereeing panel in 2020, had previously served as the fourth official in last year’s final and as an assistant referee in the 2015 edition. However, his path has not been without controversy.
In September 2023, during a high‑profile Premier League encounter between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool, England made a critical VAR error. He failed to overturn an on‑field call that disallowed a Luis Diaz goal for off‑side, a mistake that sparked intense debate about the use of technology and the pressures faced by officials.
The fallout from that incident was swift. England was removed from refereeing duties for a three‑month period and did not return to VAR responsibilities until April 2024.
Despite this setback, his performances over the remainder of the season have been strong enough to earn him the coveted role of referee for the season’s most prestigious cup final, signalling both personal resilience and the confidence of the governing bodies in his abilities. Howson’s own background adds further depth to his historic appointment.
Growing up in a community where football was a central part of daily life, he pursued refereeing as a means of staying connected to the sport he loved. Over the years, he climbed the officiating ladder through dedication, rigorous training, and consistent on‑field excellence. His rise mirrors the increasing opportunities now available for officials from under‑represented backgrounds, thanks to targeted mentorship programs, diversity scholarships, and outreach efforts designed to broaden the talent pool.
The significance of Howson’s presence on the touchline extends beyond the symbolic. It serves as an inspiration to aspiring referees of all ethnicities, demonstrating that the highest echelons of English football are accessible to anyone with the requisite skill and commitment. Moreover, his appointment may encourage clubs, associations, and training academies to continue investing in inclusive recruitment strategies, ensuring that future generations see themselves reflected among the officials who oversee the game.
Beyond the personal achievements of Howson and England, the upcoming final also provides a platform to discuss the evolving role of technology in officiating. While the VAR controversy involving England highlighted potential pitfalls, it also sparked constructive dialogue about improving decision‑making processes, enhancing communication between on‑field officials and video assistants, and refining the protocols that govern reviews.
As the sport moves forward, a balanced approach that leverages technology without undermining the human element will be crucial. Fans looking to follow the match have several viewing options.
Those subscribed to Sky Sports can stream the game live via the Sky Sports app, while non‑subscribers can access the broadcast through a flexible, contract‑free package that offers instant entry. Additionally, Sky Sports maintains an active presence on WhatsApp, providing updates, highlights, and interactive content for followers.
In summary, the 2024 FA Cup final will not only showcase a clash between two of England’s premier clubs but also mark a watershed moment in the history of football officiating. Akil Howson’s role as the first black official in a final of this magnitude underscores the sport’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion, while Darren England’s appointment reflects a narrative of professional redemption.
Together, they embody the progress made within the officiating community and set a precedent for future generations to build upon. For those interested in engaging further, Sky Sports offers a range of interactive experiences, including the chance to play Super 6 for a chance at a £250,000 prize, reinforcing the blend of sport, entertainment, and community that defines modern football culture.