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

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 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.

‘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.’

One of the Netherlands’ top referees, Dieperink had officiated in the Eredivisie since in 2017 and was on VAR duty at Euro 2024.

Just two days ago, he refereed a pre-season friendly between Dutch side Go Ahead Eagles and Cypriot side Apollon.

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