Dan Robathan, an assistant referee in the Premier League and a FIFA assistant referee, was forced into medical retirement after being diagnosed with benign tumours in his spine. Robathan said a neurosurgeon told him he had two tumours that were pressing on his nerves.
In September 2025, Robathan felt something was wrong, having previously begun experiencing problems with sexual dysfunction and bladder issues. Because of his condition, he had to lie still for 15 days. Surgeons removed one tumour, while the other was left as it was assessed to be safe. The tumours were not cancerous, and testing confirmed they were not linked to genetics.
Robathan described his recovery after surgery as brutal. By Christmas 2025, he was feeling exhausted and had difficulty lifting his heel, walking and feeling in his feet. His surgeon told him he had less than 10 per cent chance of ever returning to the pitch. Robathan is now 38 years old and still has days when he struggles to walk or when his back aches.
Robathan first took up the flag at the age of 10. During his career, he officiated in more than 200 matches in the Premier League and in World Cup qualifiers. In May 2025, he refereed the FA Cup final between Crystal Palace and Manchester City. He said it was a privilege to stand in the FA Cup final on behalf of more than 37,000 referees across the country.
Robathan is working with a psychologist to decide on his next steps. He wants to put his son, fiancée and stepdaughter first, and intends to advocate for men's mental health and for men to talk about health problems.
