Wayne Barnes, born on April 20, 1979 in Gloucestershire, England, is a man of many talents. He started his refereeing career at a young age, joining the Gloucester & District Referees at the tender age of 15. His passion for rugby and keen eye for fair play set him on a path that would lead to an illustrious career as an international rugby union referee.
After transferring to the Norfolk Referees Society, Barnes quickly made a name for himself in the world of rugby officiating. He earned his law degree from the University of East Anglia in 2000, and it was just five years later that he became a professional referee. Barnes's dedication to the game and his exceptional skills on the field caught the attention of rugby authorities around the world.
In 2001, Barnes made history by becoming the youngest referee ever appointed to the Panel of National Referees. This was just the beginning of a long list of achievements in his refereeing career. He was the first English referee to officiate a match at Croke Park in Ireland during the 2008 Six Nations Championship, showcasing his abilities on an international stage.
Barnes's expertise as a referee earned him the opportunity to officiate matches at prestigious tournaments such as the Rugby World Cup, the Six Nations, the Rugby Championship, and the Pacific Nations Cup competitions. His calm demeanor, fair judgment, and deep understanding of the game made him a respected figure in the world of rugby union.
Aside from his achievements on the field, Barnes is also a published author. His autobiography, titled Throwing the Book, was released on November 9, 2023 - just a week after he officially announced his retirement from refereeing. This book offers a glimpse into the mind of a man who dedicated his life to the sport he loves.
Off the field, Barnes is a devoted husband to his wife Polly and a loving father to their two children, Juno and Beau. Despite his demanding career as a barrister and referee, Barnes always made time for his family, instilling in them the same values of hard work and dedication that guided his own life.
Wayne Barnes's contribution to the world of rugby union refereeing is immeasurable. His fairness, integrity, and passion for the game have left a lasting impact on both players and fans alike. As he transitions into retirement, Barnes's legacy as one of the greatest referees in the history of the sport will continue to inspire future generations.