In a testament to unwavering dedication and love for the beautiful game, veteran football referee George Whitman, 68, has officially been recognized by Guinness World Records for holding the longest refereeing career in football history — with over 2,000 matches officiated across five decades.
Starting his journey in 1975 with a humble local league match in Birmingham, Whitman’s steady whistle, sharp eye, and fair judgment have since graced everything from grassroots games to international friendlies. This week, during a commemorative match at Wembley’s secondary pitch, he donned the referee’s kit once again for his 2,001st game, receiving a standing ovation from players, fans, and officials alike.
“I never did it for the records,” Whitman said humbly. “I did it because I love the game, and being part of it — in any way — gave me purpose every single weekend.”
Over the decades, Whitman has seen it all: muddy fields, fiery tempers, last-minute goals, and the evolution of football from analog to digital — from notebooks to VAR. Despite the changing nature of the game, his commitment to fairness, fitness, and football ethics remained unwavering.
Guinness officials presented him with a world record certificate at the pitch-side ceremony, acknowledging him for the “Longest Career as a Football Referee (Male)”, surpassing the previous record of 1,820 games.
Former players, some of whom had been officiated by Whitman in their youth, returned to honor him. “He was the kind of ref who’d explain the rules, not just enforce them. That’s rare,” said retired striker Dean Marley.
