Cape Town – Former Premier Soccer League (PSL) referee Ian McLeod, who became the first South African to referee in a FIFA World Cup, died at the age of 63 on Thursday night.

SAFA communications manager Dominic Chimhamvi confirmed the news of McLeod’s passing.

“He was match commissioner at a recent national first division match and on his return home he told his wife that he was not feeling well‚” Chimhavi told TimesLive.

McLeod became the first South African to referee in a FIFA World Cup when he officiated in the 1998 footballing showpiece in France.

The local football fraternity took to Twitter to remember and send their condolences to the much-loved McLeod and his family:

Former top referee Ian McLeod has passed away. He was admitted in hospital last week & sadly passed on this evening.
May his soul RIP pic.twitter.com/ZNadAH3Lxi

— SAFA.net (@SAFA_net) October 26, 2017

Rest in Peace Ian McLeod. Great servant of the beautiful game through and through.

Condolences to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/bs86ModoAv

— Official PSL (@OfficialPSL) October 26, 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

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

RIP to the legend Ian Macloed…Condolences to his family.????

— BK___16 (@Brilliekhuzwayo) October 27, 2017

R.I.P to Mr Ian Mcleod. My sincere condolences to the Mcleod family and loved ones

— George Maluleka (@GeorgeMaluleka) October 26, 2017

Our heartfelt condolences to Ian McLeod’s family following the passing of the legendary ex-referee. SA football has lost a giant. #RIP pic.twitter.com/HNYmK3Y7U0

— Platinum Stars (@PlatinumStarsFC) October 26, 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