Diversity report accuses the FA’s referee system of obstructing black and Asian officials from reaching elite levels.

English football is embroiled in a new racism scandal as black and Asian referees have revealed the extent of the prejudice and abuse they face, which they argue prevents them from advancing in the sport. A dossier, compiled by match officials and reviewed by the Observer, claims that racism within the Football Association’s (FA) refereeing system is obstructing the promotion of black and Asian individuals to top positions in the game.

The diversity report presented to the FA contains allegations of racist remarks made by the assessors who evaluate referees for progression to higher leagues. The FA is now under pressure to launch an urgent investigation into the claims.

Tony Burnett, chief executive of the anti-racism organization Kick It Out, commented, “The lack of diversity in refereeing is our biggest failure in football. Black and Asian people are not making it through to elite refereeing roles.” The scandal highlights the ongoing challenges to tackle racial inequality within the football community.