Akil Howson is on the brink of making history by becoming the inaugural Black official to work the FA Cup final in the competition's storied 154‑year timeline. The 31‑year‑old will serve alongside referee Darren England as one of the two assistant referees at Wembley Stadium on 16 May, when the showdown between Chelsea and Manchester City takes place. Howson's appointment is not merely a personal milestone; it reflects a broader shift toward greater inclusion and representation within English football's officiating ranks. Howson's journey to this pinnacle began in earnest in August 2023, when he broke a 15‑year hiatus by being named the Premier League’s first permanent Black official since the legendary Uriah Rennie.
That landmark appointment signalled a renewed commitment from the governing bodies to diversify the pool of match officials, an effort that has accelerated over the past few seasons. Today, more than seven percent of referees and assistant referees across both the men’s and women’s professional games identify as Black, Asian, or of mixed heritage—a figure that is roughly three times the proportion recorded in 2022. The significance of Howson’s role at the FA Cup final extends beyond the symbolism of a single match.
It underscores the tangible outcomes of targeted recruitment, mentorship programmes, and community outreach initiatives that have been introduced at the grassroots level. Football associations across the country have been working to identify talented officials from under‑represented backgrounds, offering them structured pathways, educational resources, and support networks designed to help them progress from local leagues to the elite tiers of the sport.
As a result, the officiating community is becoming more reflective of the diverse fan base that follows the game. The appointment of Darren England as the match referee also carries its own narrative of redemption and resilience. England, who earned his place on the Premier League referee list in 2020, had previously served as the fourth official in last year’s FA Cup final and as an assistant referee in the 2015 edition.
His selection for the 2024 final is a direct acknowledgement of his consistently high‑quality performances throughout the season, despite a high‑profile setback earlier in his career. In September 2023, England was at the centre of a controversial VAR decision during a Premier League clash between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool. A potential goal by Luis Diaz was ruled out for off‑side, and England failed to overturn the on‑field call despite the evidence presented by the video assistant referee.
The error sparked a wave of criticism and led to England being sidelined from refereeing duties for three months. He only returned to VAR responsibilities in April 2024, after a period of reflection and additional training. His ability to rebound from that episode and regain the trust of the officiating hierarchy demonstrates the rigorous standards and personal fortitude required at the highest level of the game. The upcoming final will be broadcast worldwide, and both Howson and England will be under intense scrutiny from fans, pundits, and former players alike.
Their performances will be dissected frame by frame, with particular attention paid to how they manage the pace of play, enforce the laws of the game, and communicate with players and coaching staff. For Howson, the occasion offers a platform to inspire a new generation of aspiring officials from minority backgrounds, showing that the highest echelons of football are attainable with dedication, skill, and the right support structures. Beyond the immediate spectacle, the match serves as a barometer for the ongoing evolution of officiating technology and practice.
The integration of VAR, semi‑automated off‑side systems, and advanced communication tools has transformed the role of referees and their assistants, demanding a blend of traditional decision‑making acumen and technological fluency. Howson’s experience in both Premier League fixtures and international assignments has equipped him with the necessary expertise to navigate these complexities, ensuring that the final proceeds smoothly and fairly. As the football world prepares for what promises to be a thrilling contest between two of England’s most successful clubs, the narrative surrounding the officials adds an extra layer of intrigue.
The historic nature of Howson’s involvement, coupled with England’s redemption arc, highlights the human stories that unfold behind the whistle—stories of perseverance, progress, and the continual push toward a more inclusive sport. Regardless of the final score, the legacy of this match will be marked by the milestones achieved off the pitch.
Akil Howson’s presence on the Wembley turf will stand as a testament to the strides made in diversifying football’s officiating cadre, while Darren England’s appointment will remind observers that setbacks can be transformed into comebacks through resilience and continuous learning. Together, they embody the evolving face of English football, where talent and determination are increasingly recognised irrespective of background.
The FA Cup final will also be accompanied by a range of viewing options for fans worldwide. Those with a Sky Sports subscription can stream the match via the Sky Sports app, while non‑subscribers have the opportunity to access the game through flexible, contract‑free packages.
Additionally, Sky Sports maintains an active presence on WhatsApp, offering updates and interactive features for followers eager to stay connected during the event. For those looking to add a bit of excitement beyond the match itself, promotional activities such as the Super 6 competition—offering a chance to win £250,000—are also being promoted alongside the broadcast.
In summary, the 2024 FA Cup final is set to be a landmark occasion not only for the clubs competing but also for the officials who will oversee it. Akil Howson’s historic appointment as the first Black official in a final, alongside Darren England’s return to the spotlight after a challenging period, encapsulates the dynamic and inclusive direction in which English football is moving. Their performances will be remembered as part of a broader narrative of progress, diversity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence on and off the pitch.