Bhupinder Singh Gill becomes first Sikh-Punjabi referee to officiate in Premier League

Bhupinder Singh Gill (Source: Twitter)

The English Premier League (PL) is one of the most watched and loved leagues in the world of football. The quality and standards in the league are like none other and the tournament keeps on breaking the boundaries. It is set to mark a significant moment. The man making headlines is Bhupinder Singh Gill.

Bhupinder will become the first referee of Sikh origin from Punjab to oversee a Premier League game. Bhupinder will be playing his part in the match as an assisting referee in the match against Southampton and Nottingham Forest which was played on Wednesday. Bhupinder’s brother Sunny also entered the history books as he refereed in an EFL match earlier this season. His father had done the same 10 years ago. Now Bhupinder will follow in his family’s footsteps.

"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." He said in an interaction with the Mirror "My family are also really proud and excited for me. I wouldn't be in this situation if it wasn't for my dad, who has supported me throughout my journey and been a role model for me,"

Refereeing as an occupation runs in the veins of the Gill family. Bhupinder’s father Jarnail Singh supervised over 150 matches in the football league between 2004 to 2010. Jarnail also worked with Howard Webb as part of his referring entourage.

"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." Webb told Sky Sports.

"Bhupinder's appointment to the Premier League and the best league in the world will show an even greater audience about what's possible for people from different backgrounds." "His dad Jarnail was a legendary referee in our eyes, he was a great referee and a great friend. He was the first referee to wear a turban in the professional game, so he stood out and that puts pressure on you as a referee. He obviously pulled that off exceptionally well and was a great role model for people following on, including his sons Bhupinder and Sunny. Webb added.