Rob Dieperink, a Dutch football referee, has died weeks after being dropped from officiating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The news was confirmed on July 13, 2026, following his removal from FIFA's list of World Cup officials in May due to a police investigation in the UK.
Dieperink, 38, was initially selected to serve as a video assistant referee (VAR) for the tournament but was arrested by the Metropolitan Police in April after a report of a sexual assault against a teenage boy. However, the case was dropped due to insufficient evidence.
Response from the Dutch Football Association
The KNVB, the Netherlands' football association, expressed their shock and sadness at Dieperink's passing. In a statement, they said, "With Rob, we lose a highly valued referee, but above all a kind 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 processing this great loss."
FIFA also expressed condolences, stating, "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."
Dieperink's Career and Controversy
Dieperink began refereeing in the Eredivisie, the top tier of Dutch football, in 2017 and served as a VAR official at Euro 2024. After being dropped from the World Cup, he claimed in an interview with De Telegraaf that he had been "wrongly accused." He stated, "It saddens me greatly that I have been wrongly accused. From the beginning, I have fully cooperated in the police investigation and also immediately gave full openness to FIFA, UEFA, and the KNVB."
He expressed disappointment over FIFA's decision not to appoint him for the World Cup, adding, "I am grateful for the support I have received from the KNVB and the way in which they have dealt with this case."
Details of the Investigation
The Metropolitan Police released a statement detailing the investigation. On April 9, officers responded to a report of a sexual assault on Wellesley Road, Croydon. Following a thorough investigation, which included reviewing CCTV footage and examining digital devices, police concluded that the evidential threshold had not been met, and no further action would be taken.
- Dieperink's Age: 38
- Date of Arrest: April 2026
- World Cup Drop Date: May 2026
- Career Start: 2017 in Eredivisie
Dieperink was the VAR for Crystal Palace's 3-0 Europa Conference League quarter-final first-leg win over Fiorentina on April 9, 2026. His unexpected death has left a significant impact on the football community.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by BBC Football. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
