Dutch Referee Rob Dieperink Dies at 38 After Sexual Assault Allegations Ended Without Charges

The Dutch football community is mourning the death of international referee Rob Dieperink, who passed away at the age of 38. Dieperink was set to serve as a VAR official at the 2026 World Cup but was removed from the tournament roster following his arrest in London in April on suspicion of sexually assaulting a 17-year-old boy. The case was later closed due to lack of evidence. The Royal Dutch Football Association expressed shock and sadness over his passing, praising him as a respected and experienced referee and a dedicated colleague.

Dutch police investigated the circumstances of Dieperink's death after officers arrived at his residence, concluding there was no involvement of a third party. Due to privacy concerns, no further details were released. Dieperink began refereeing in the Dutch second division in 2012 and advanced to the top league in 2017. He was part of the officiating team at Euro 2024 in Germany, serving as a VAR referee. Just days before his death, he officiated a friendly match between Go Ahead Eagles and Apollon.

Following his arrest in London after a Conference League match, FIFA decided not to include him in the World Cup squad despite the case's closure. Dieperink told Dutch media that he was deeply saddened by the false accusations and had fully cooperated with police and football authorities from the start. He expressed disappointment over FIFA's decision to exclude him from the tournament. The football community continues to reflect on his career and untimely death.