TFF appoints former World Cup referee Anthony Taylor to lead elite program

The Turkish Football Federation has recruited retired English referee Anthony Taylor to direct its elite officiating operations, appointing the 47-year-old to a post aimed at modernizing the country's refereeing infrastructure in line with continental and global benchmarks. The appointment was confirmed on Tuesday by Trinity Chambers, the law firm that represented Taylor during the recruitment process.

Elite development mandate

Barrister Fraser Williamson, who acted on Taylor's behalf, said the former official's achievements in football "speak for themselves" and described the position as an opportunity to contribute to the continued development of elite refereeing in Türkiye. "I wish him every success in what I am sure will be a rewarding and successful chapter," Williamson added.

International pedigree

Taylor announced last month that he was stepping down from active officiating after presiding over 668 professional domestic matches in England. "I am delighted to take on this new role," he said following the announcement, noting that he will lead strategic and technical development to align the TFF's program with UEFA and FIFA standards. His international portfolio includes UEFA Euro 2020 and the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups — assignments that established him as one of the sport's most experienced officials.