Referee dropped for World Cup after arrest for sexual assault, dies aged 38

Rob Dieperink had been due to officiate at the 2026 World Cup (Photo: Getty)

Dutch referee Rob Dieperink, who was dropped for the

World Cup

after being arrested in the UK earlier this year, has died aged 38.

The Dutch football association (KNVB) announced the shocking news on Monday, with a statement reading: ‘We are shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of referee Rob Dieperink.

‘With Rob, the refereeing community loses a highly valued referee with international experience, but above all, a fine and dedicated colleague.

‘Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and everyone who held him dear. We wish them much strength and support in coping with this great loss.’

The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Dieperink was arrested in his London hotel room on April 9 shortly after being on VAR duty for

Crystal Palace

’s UEFA Conference League game against Fiorentina.

He was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault on a teenage boy

but following an investigation, he was not charged with any offence and the case was dropped by police due to a lack of evidence.

Dieperink refereed a pre-season friendly just two days before his passing (Photo: Getty)

Dieperink had been on

FIFA

’s list of VAR officials for this summer’s World Cup in North America but confirmed that he had been stood down just a month before the tournament began.

In an interview with Dutch outlet De Telegraaf in May, Dieperink said: ‘It saddens me greatly that I have been wrongly accused.

‘From the start, I have fully cooperated with the police investigation and also immediately provided full transparency to FIFA, UEFA, and the KNVB.

Dieperink, left, had officiated some big matches, including the 2024 Europa League final (Photo: Getty)

‘The allegations have been refuted and the case was dismissed within two weeks following an adequate and thorough investigation by the police.

‘I am grateful for the support I received from the KNVB and the way they handled this matter. It is unfortunate that FIFA has decided not to appoint me for the World Cup anymore. I am naturally disappointed about that.’

Home

divider

Sport

Football

Referee dropped for 2026 World Cup dies aged 38 as statement released:Dutch FIFA referee Rob Dieperink has died aged 38. Dutch police are investigating his death. He was previously arrested over a sexual assault allegation, which was later dropped.

Milan use Chukwueze in new role, similar to Amad Diallo at Manchester United:In his first Milan training session, coach Ruben Amorim used striker Samuel Chukwueze in a deeper, wide-right midfield role, echoing his previous use of Amad Diallo at Manchester United.

Barcelona star ready to reject Bayern Munich:Barcelona defender Jules Koundé has turned down an approach from Bayern Munich, preferring to remain at the club this summer despite the German champions' interest.

الأخبار

التفاصيل