Graham Poll
About
Graham Poll
Renowned Football Referee and Sports Pundit
Graham Poll is widely regarded as the best English referee of the last 25 years, as recognized by the International Federation of Football History and Statistics (IFFHS). With a notable career spanning over three decades, he has officiated in both the Premier League and Champions League, cementing his status as a leading figure in football officiating.
In Detail
Born and raised in Bandley Hill and Shephall, Poll began his refereeing journey in 1980. He advanced through the ranks, starting from the Isthmian League to become a Football League assistant referee in 1986. By 1993, he had earned his place on the list of Premier League referees, becoming a prominent figure in the game.
Poll held a FIFA badge from 1996, which allowed him to officiate in several prestigious European matches, including the 2005 UEFA Cup final between CSKA Moscow and Sporting Lisbon. He also refereed at significant international tournaments, such as Euro 2000, where he oversaw matches including France vs. Czech Republic and Norway vs. Slovenia.
Beyond his refereeing duties, Graham Poll has shared his expertise through various media channels. He frequently appears on the popular football radio show World Soccer Daily, providing insights into refereeing decisions during controversial moments in matches. Additionally, he co-hosts Chappers Premier League Podcast alongside Mark Chapman and Kevin Day.
Poll is also a columnist for the Daily Mail, discussing officiating at the highest levels, and he appears regularly as a pundit on Setanta Sports‘ show Football Matters. Since the end of 2009, he has contributed as a newspaper reviewer on Sky News Sunrise.
In addition to his sports commentary, Poll is committed to charitable work, having participated in the London Marathon in 2008, raising funds for the Iain Rennie Hospice at Home. He is a passionate supporter of Queens Park Rangers, a fact he humorously revealed on the SkyOne panel show A League of Their Own.
What He Offers You
Since retiring, Graham Poll has established a strong reputation on the after-dinner speaking circuit. His engaging storytelling and profound insights into the Premier League and world football make him an ideal speaker for corporate events, conferences, and sports banquets.
Topics
- The Role of Referees in Modern Football
- High-Pressure Decision Making
- Insights from the Premier League
- Charity and Community Engagement in Sports
- Behind the Scenes of International Tournaments
Languages
Graham presents in English.
How He Presents
With a wealth of experience and a charismatic style, Graham Poll captivates audiences with his unique perspectives on football officiating. His ability to blend humor with serious analysis makes him a popular choice for events, where he shares memorable anecdotes and valuable lessons from his time on the pitch.