Karl Dickson has transitioned from a professional rugby player to an internationally recognized rugby referee, bringing a unique perspective to the sport. After contributing to Harlequins’ 2011–12 Premiership final victory over Leicester Tigers, Karl Dickson cemented his reputation as a formidable scrum-half during a distinguished playing career spanning over a decade. Dickson first rose through the ranks at Bedford Blues, being promoted to the senior team in 2004 where he made over 100 appearances. He joined Harlequins in 2009, making an additional 169 appearances and playing a pivotal role in the club’s success, which included being part of their Amlin Cup, Premiership, and LV Cup winning teams between 2011 and 2013.

The pinnacle of his career arrived in 2023 when he made his Rugby World Cup debut, officiating the Wales v Portugal game. He further solidified his standing by officiating the quarter-final between Wales and Argentina in the same tournament, and notably served as an assistant referee in the Rugby World Cup final between South Africa and New Zealand. Building on these achievements, Karl Dickson is slated to officiate two upcoming 2025 Men’s Six Nations matches, including Scotland v Italy and Italy v France, affirming his position as a prominent and sought-after international rugby referee.