Who is Bhupinder Singh Gill? Read all about the first Sikh-Punjabi to referee in the Premier League
Who is Bhupinder Singh Gill? Read all about the first Sikh-Punjabi to referee in the Premier League
The Midweek clash between Southampton and Nottingham Forest witnessed history being created. All eyes were on Bhupinder Singh Gill, as he made his debut as a Premier League linesman. Singh became the first person of Sikh-Punjabi origin to referee a game in England’s top flight.
Refereeing runs in the family as Jarnail Singh, Bhupinder’s father, was a referee for the EFL (English Football League). Between 2004 and 2010, Jarnail Singh oversaw over 150 games during his time. He was no short of creating history himself as he was the first referee to rock a turban while officiating a game.
Bhupinder’s elder brother, Sunny Singh Gill is the most accomplished referee of South Asian origin in England. Recently, Sunny became the first British official of Asian origin following his father to have supervised a League Two game.
Bhupinder Singh Gill’s Background
Bhupinder is a PE teacher and father of two. He has been a part of the ERDP (Elite Referee Development Plan which was launched earlier in 2022. ERDP was set up to raise quality officials and safeguard them from marginalization while assisting them in reaching the epitomes of the sport.
Hobart Webb, a chief officiating executive for Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) gave a statement to Sky Sports saying “First and foremost, I’m delighted that Bhupinder has been given this appointment in the Premier League – for him as an individual, and for the recognition of the talented and dedicated official he is, having worked his way through the levels”
It is believed by many, that Bhupinder’s selection will not only encourage but allow children and teenagers from Asian backgrounds to aim for the sky.
Bhupinder Singh Gill’s Reaction
In a post-match statement to the press, Bhupinder stated: “This has to be the proudest and most exciting moment in my refereeing journey so far, but I’m not getting carried away as it is just another step in the direction to where I want to get to.”
While being optimistic, Gill said-
“My dream has always been to reach the top of the game, be a role model for future officials and encourage more people from diverse backgrounds into officiating, especially from a South Asian background just like me.”
