Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink has died, weeks after being removed from FIFA’s list of officials for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a police investigation in the United Kingdom that was later dropped due to lack of evidence.
Dieperink, 38, had been selected as a video assistant referee (VAR) for the World Cup but was removed from the tournament’s officiating panel in May after his arrest by the Metropolitan Police in April over an allegation of sexual assault involving a teenage boy.
The Metropolitan Police later concluded its investigation, stating that the available evidence did not meet the evidential threshold required for further action and the case was closed without charges.
The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) confirmed Dieperink’s death on Sunday, saying it was “shocked and deeply saddened.” The cause of death has not been disclosed.
“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,” the KNVB said in a statement.
Dieperink had officiated in the Dutch Eredivisie since 2017 and also served as a VAR at UEFA Euro 2024.
Following his removal from FIFA’s World Cup officiating list, Dieperink maintained his innocence in an interview with Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf.
“It saddens me greatly that I have been wrongly accused,” he said.
“From the beginning, I fully cooperated with the police investigation and immediately provided complete openness to FIFA, UEFA and the KNVB. I am grateful for the support I received from the KNVB and the way they handled this case. It is a pity that FIFA decided not to appoint me for the World Cup. Of course, I am disappointed.”
Dieperink’s last major European assignment came as VAR during Crystal Palace’s 3-0 UEFA Europa Conference League quarter-final first-leg victory over Fiorentina on April 9.
According to the Metropolitan Police, officers responded to a report of an alleged sexual assault at an address in Croydon on April 9. After reviewing CCTV footage, examining digital devices and gathering available evidence, investigators concluded that no further action would be taken.
