[3] Riley took charge of the 2004 Football League Cup Final, between Bolton and Middlesbrough, in a game that saw all three goals scored within the first 25 minutes.

Riley also headed England's refereeing team alongside assistants Philip Sharp and Glenn Turner at the UEFA Euro 2004 finals.

[5] Riley officiated the Football League Championship playoff final between West Ham United and Preston North End in 2005.

South China won by 3–1, allowing them to achieve a treble in local competitions (First Division League, Senior Shield and FA Cup).

[6] Mike Riley was appointed manager of the Professional Game Match Officials Board (PGMOB) in June 2009, replacing Keith Hackett.