Premier League and FIFA assistant referee Dan Robathan, who was officiating at the FA Cup final in May 2025, has medically retired due to spinal tumors. The tumors were discovered after Robathan experienced symptoms initially thought to be sciatic nerve pain and wear and tear. Upon further examination, doctors found two benign, or non-cancerous, tumors in his spine. These tumors were compressing his nerves and could have impacted the function of his leg. Robathan underwent surgery in which one tumor was removed, while the other was left in place, as it was deemed safe by surgeons. Robathan had built a notable career in football, starting from grassroots matches and progressing to officiating over 200 Premier League games and international World Cup qualifiers. Following his surgery, he described his recovery as "brutal." Despite his determination to return to the field, by Christmas 2025, he was still struggling with fatigue, difficulty lifting his heel, and trouble walking or feeling his calf. A surgeon had told him his chances of returning to active refereeing were less than 10%, but Robathan was determined to prove them wrong. Despite his efforts, Robathan was ultimately forced to retire, stating the decision was made for him. He now experiences days where he struggles to walk or where his back feels "on fire." Robathan is working with a psychologist to determine his next steps and has expressed a desire to advocate for men's mental health and encourage open conversations about health issues. He also mentioned the possibility of staying involved in football for the right reasons, but emphasized the need to prioritize his family, including his son, fiancée, and stepchildren. Robathan's story highlights the challenges faced by athletes and officials when dealing with unexpected health issues. His journey from the pitch to recovery underscores the importance of addressing both physical and mental well-being in high-stakes careers. While he may no longer be on the field, Robathan aims to use his experience to support others facing similar challenges.