"Akil Howson will become the first black official to feature in an FA Cup final when Chelsea take on Manchester City next month, serving as an assistant referee."
"Darren England will referee the showpiece event for the first time, having previously been the fourth official at the 2025 final and an assistant referee at the 2015 final."
"Professional Game Match Officials (PGMO) are making efforts to diversify the refereeing pathway, with officials like Farai Hallam and Ruebyn Ricardo now officiating in the top two divisions."
"For referee England, this will be a significant milestone on his rehabilitation from his mistake during Tottenham's game against Liverpool in September 2023."
Akil Howson has been appointed as an assistant referee for the FA Cup final between Chelsea and Manchester City, marking a historic moment as the first black official in this role. Darren England will referee the match, having previously served as a fourth official and assistant referee in past finals. The Professional Game Match Officials are working to diversify the officiating pathway, with several officials now officiating in top divisions. England's appointment follows a significant rehabilitation after a controversial VAR decision in September 2023.
Read at www.bbc.com
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