World Cup referee Rob Dieperink dies suddenly months after FIFA decision

Two months ago, Rob Dieperink, a Dutch football referee, was dropped from the 2026 FIFA World Cup officiating team.

He was accused of sexually assaulting a teenage boy in London at the time of the UEFA Conference League in April 2026.

Later, the Metropolitan Police arrested him. However, the case was dropped due to insufficient evidence.

Now, he died suddenly.

So far, no cause of death has been revealed. The Dutch Football Association paid tribute to him, saying, "We are shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Rob Dieperink."

"With Rob, we lose a highly valued referee, but above all a kind and dedicated colleague,” the statement added.

Originally, Dieperink was a video assistant referee for FIFA at the 2026 World Cup.

But as soon as he was arrested by the police, the global football federation dropped him from the tournament.

In response to FIFA's decision, Dieperink at the time reacted, “It saddens me greatly that I have been wrongly accused."

He further told De Telegraaf, “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," he said.

"It is a pity that FIFA has decided not to appoint me for the World Cup anymore, of course I am disappointed about that," Dieperink concluded.