Former FIFA International Football Referee, Scottish Cup Final Official, UEFA Champions League & Old Firm Match Official

John Rowbotham referee was appointed to referee the 2005 Scottish Cup Final between Celtic and Dundee United. He said the feeling he had when appointed resulted in him speaking to spacemen for days!

John Rowbotham was a Class 1 referee for 12 years, international referee for 5 years. He officiated as referee, assistant referee and 4th official at 13 old firm matches.  John refereed 50 games internationally at different levels including 4 World Cup Qualifiers in Russia, Cyprus, Lichtenstein and Switzerland.  He also covered Champions League and UEFA Cup games involving, Real Madrid, PSG, Bayern Munich, AC Milan and Inter Milan.

Occasionally mistaken for Pierreluigi Collina the famous Italian “but not as good a referee ” as the Scottish baldy. John is instantly recognisable for his 6’3” frame and also his shaved head. John was a favourite with both home and away fans.  He is happy speaking to audiences of 50 to 500.

Speaking engagements have included St Mirran FC dinner with 500 guests. Also the boxing promoter Tommy Gilmour’s monthly sportsman’s evening and Dundee United’s corporate dinner at the Hilton in Glasgow. He also spoke at the East Fife all time greats awards in Kirkcaldy and the Central Amateurs dinner in Motherwell with over 200 guests in attendance.

John Rowbotham referee is considered one of Scotland’s top speakers on the sportsman’s dinner circuit. He is also very much in demand for his funny football anecdotes and real life stories from his time as a football referee.

Why Hire John Rowbotham?