Dutch referee Rob Dieperink dies after being dropped from World Cup

Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink has died at the age of 38, weeks after being removed from officiating at the World Cup following a police investigation in the United Kingdom. Dieperink had been selected as a video assistant referee (VAR) official for the 2026 FIFA World Cup but was taken off the list in May after his arrest in April.

Arrest and investigation

Dieperink was arrested by the Metropolitan Police in April after a report of a sexual assault against a teenage boy. The incident allegedly occurred at an address on Wellesley Road in Croydon on 9 April, the same day Dieperink served as VAR for Crystal Palace's 3-0 Europa Conference League quarter-final first-leg win over Fiorentina. Police said they conducted a thorough investigation, including gathering CCTV and examining digital devices, but concluded that the evidential threshold had not been met. No further action was taken.

Removal from World Cup

Following his arrest, FIFA removed Dieperink from the list of World Cup officials. In an interview with Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, Dieperink said he had been "wrongly accused" and expressed disappointment at FIFA's decision. "It saddens me greatly that I have been wrongly accused," he said. "From the beginning, I have fully cooperated in the police investigation and also immediately gave full openness to FIFA, UEFA and the KNVB. I am grateful for the support I have received from the KNVB and the way in which they have dealt with this case. It is a pity that FIFA has decided not to appoint me for the World Cup any more, of course I am disappointed about that."

Reactions to his death

The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) said it was "shocked and deeply saddened" by Dieperink's death. "With Rob, we lose a highly valued referee, but above all a kind and dedicated colleague," the KNVB said in a statement. "Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and everyone who held him dear. We wish them much strength and support in processing this great loss." FIFA also expressed condolences, saying it learned of the news with "great sadness." "On behalf of the entire football community, we extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends and the Dutch Football Association. May he rest in peace," the governing body said.

Career highlights

Dieperink had refereed in the Eredivisie since 2017 and served as a VAR official at Euro 2024. His cause of death has not been disclosed.