Take a look at how Twitter reacted to the untimely passing of former South African referee Ian McLeod.
The South African Football Association (Safa) confirmed the news of McLeod’s passing after he was admitted to hospital.
McLeod made history when he became the first South African to referee in a Fifa World Cup when he officiated the 1998 global tournament in France.
He also officiated matches in the 1997 Fifa Confederations Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations.
At the time of his death the former referee was 63 years old, and had served as a senior referees manager at Safa.
SoccerClub would like to send its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of McLeod.
Here are a few reactions following the news of his passing:
Deeply saddened by the passing of the legend that was Ian McLeod.A true servant of the game,will miss his presence pitch side. Great man!
— Michael Morton (@MMORTON6) October 27, 2017
Sad to hear of the passing of former referee Ian McLeod. His contribution to the beautiful game will not be forgotten. #RIPIanMcLeod
— Bidvest Wits (@BidvestWits) October 27, 2017
Condolences to the family & friends of Ian McLeod. We will miss your presence and your smile. #Legend #RIPIanMcLeod pic.twitter.com/1ZRXASpNsG
— Bloemfontein Celtic (@Bloem_Celtic) October 27, 2017
Our deepest condolences to the family, friends & football fraternity for the sad loss of former FIFA top referee Ian McLeod #RIPIanMcLeod pic.twitter.com/8jmlKSI1vt
— SuperSport United FC (@SuperSportFC) October 26, 2017
R.I.P to Mr Ian Mcleod. My sincere condolences to the Mcleod family and loved ones
— George Maluleka (@GeorgeMaluleka) October 26, 2017
The Match Officials: Ian McLeod, Cedric Muvhali, Shaun Olive, Kenny Mamegwa, Victor Hlungwani #OnceAlways #CarlingCup pic.twitter.com/5zMxWuCw8L
— Orlando Pirates FC (@orlandopirates) July 29, 2017
So sad to hear
— Lucas Radebe (@LucasRadebe) October 27, 2017
RIP. Condolences to his family and friends. https://t.co/73pN0jaaUK
— Hlompho Kekana (@Hlompho_Kekana) October 26, 2017
RIP Ian MacLeod
SA Football has lost a true gentleman!
Grew up watchin him ref NSL games to him ref in my early PSL yrs..One of the best!! pic.twitter.com/UASDzyx2wS— Nathan Paulse (@natespaulse) October 27, 2017
Rest well 😇 pic.twitter.com/bTiLpntyEV
— Mark Mayambela (@ProfMayambela12) October 26, 2017
May your soul Rest In Peace🙏🏽 https://t.co/4NfDaUozLw
— Keagan dolly (@dolly_keagan07) October 26, 2017
#RIP Mr Ref. From U16 all the way to Pro ranks – you were always fair. Respect. https://t.co/YsJiD3bl7W
— George Dearnaley (@zulushark) October 27, 2017
Photo: Aubrey Kgakatsi/ BackpagePix
