XSP are official representatives for

Brian McGinlay • After Dinner Speaker

Brian McGinlay is one of Scotland’s most experienced and respected former football referees, having officiated at the very highest level of the game both domestically and internationally. A former Grade 1 Scottish referee, Brian took charge of an incredible 98 European club and international fixtures during a distinguished career which saw him become one of the best-known officials of his era.

At domestic level, Brian refereed 21 Old Firm matches – remarkably without ever sending off a player. Despite handling some of the fiercest occasions in Scottish football, he cites the dramatic Rangers v Aberdeen title decider at the end of the 1990–91 season as the most nerve-racking game of his career. Calm under pressure and respected by players and officials alike, Brian built a reputation for authority, fairness and composure.

On the international stage, Brian officiated at European Championship matches, Home Internationals and the Summer Olympic Games, while also taking charge of major UEFA fixtures including the unforgettable Real Madrid v Borussia Mönchengladbach UEFA Cup tie. His stories from football’s golden era, combined with behind-the-scenes insight into the pressures of top-level refereeing, make for fascinating listening.

Today, Brian McGinlay is a hugely entertaining after dinner speaker whose stories, humour and honesty are always a hit with audiences. From dealing with managers and players to hearing exactly what supporters really think of referees, Brian delivers a warm, funny and revealing look at life in the middle – proving that referees really do hear everything!