Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink has died at the age of 38, weeks after he was removed from FIFA’s list of match officials for the 2026 World Cup.
The Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) confirmed his death on Sunday, describing the loss of the experienced official as a devastating moment for Dutch football.
Dieperink had originally been selected to serve as a video assistant referee (VAR) at the tournament before FIFA withdrew his appointment in May.
KNVB pays tribute
In a statement, the KNVB expressed its sadness over Dieperink’s passing.
“With Rob, we lose a highly valued referee, but above all a kind and dedicated colleague.”
The association added:
“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.”
No cause of death has been disclosed.
Investigation ended without charges
Dieperink’s removal from the World Cup followed a police investigation in the United Kingdom.
According the BBC, the 38-year-old was arrested by the Metropolitan Police in April after an allegation of sexual assault involving a teenage boy. However, the investigation was later closed without further action after police concluded there was insufficient evidence.
A Metropolitan Police statement said:
“Following these enquiries, they concluded that the evidential threshold had not been met. No further action will be taken.”
Following FIFA’s decision to remove him from the World Cup officials’ list, Dieperink maintained his innocence in an interview with Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf.
“It saddens me greatly that I have been wrongly accused.”
He added:
“From the beginning, I have fully cooperated in the police investigation and also immediately gave full openness to Fifa, Uefa and the KNVB.”
Although disappointed by FIFA’s decision, Dieperink said he appreciated the support he received from the Dutch football federation.
Dieperink had officiated in the Eredivisie since 2017 and also worked as a VAR at UEFA Euro 2024. His most recent European appointment came in April when he served as the video assistant referee during Crystal Palace’s UEFA Europa Conference League quarter-final first-leg victory over Fiorentina.
