Dutch referee Rob Dieperink dies weeks after being dropped from World Cup

The Dutch football community is mourning the death of referee Rob Dieperink, who died at the age of 38. His passing, which was confirmed on 13 July 2026, follows a period of significant professional upheaval after he was removed from the roster of match officials for the 2026 World Cup.

Dieperink, an experienced official who had been a fixture in the top-flight Dutch Eredivisie since 2017 and served as a video assistant referee (VAR) during the 2024 European Championships, faced a sudden career disruption in April. On 9 April, Metropolitan Police officers in London arrested Dieperink following reports of an alleged sexual assault against a teenage boy at an address on Wellesley Road in Croydon. The incident allegedly occurred after Dieperink had officiated as a VAR during a Europa Conference League match between Crystal Palace and Fiorentina.

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Legal and Professional Fallout

Following his arrest, the Metropolitan Police conducted an investigation that involved the review of CCTV footage and the examination of digital devices. Authorities eventually concluded that the evidential threshold had not been met and that no further action would be taken against the official. Despite the closure of the case by law enforcement, FIFA removed Dieperink from its list of tournament officials in May. He was subsequently replaced on the World Cup roster by the French referee Willy Delajod.

Dieperink consistently maintained his innocence regarding the allegations. In a statement provided to the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf following his removal from the tournament, the official expressed his frustration with the governing body's decision.

"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. 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."

Rob Dieperink, Referee, via De Telegraaf

Conflicting Organizational Perspectives

The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) publicly maintained its support for Dieperink after the case was dropped. According to statements published by The Athletic, the association emphasized its dedication to a safe and honest football culture, while noting the importance of allowing an individual the opportunity to tell their story. The KNVB had previously indicated that they saw no reason not to appoint Dieperink for matches in the Dutch league.

Conversely, FIFA’s decision to remove him from the World Cup followed its own internal review standards. While the global governing body expressed "great sadness" upon learning of Dieperink's death, its decision in May to stand him down remained in effect until his passing.

Investigation and Final Days

Dutch police have opened an investigation into the cause of Dieperink’s death, which has not been publicly disclosed. According to reports, officers were seen in the street where the referee resided following the news of his passing. The KNVB issued a formal statement on the matter, describing Dieperink as a "highly valued referee with international experience" and a "fine and dedicated colleague."

Prior to his death, Dieperink continued his professional responsibilities within the Dutch football system. As recently as the weekend prior to his death, he officiated a friendly match between the Go Ahead Eagles and the Cypriot club Apollon FC.