Dutch Football Referee Rob Dieperink Dies Weeks After World Cup Removal Amid Police Probe

Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink passed away weeks after being removed from the list of officials for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Dieperink was initially selected to serve as a VAR referee but was withdrawn following a police investigation launched in April in the United Kingdom. The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) expressed deep shock and sadness over his death, noting that the circumstances remain undisclosed. They described him as a highly respected referee and a dedicated colleague, extending condolences to his family, friends, and close ones.

Dieperink had officiated in the top Dutch league since 2017 and served as a VAR referee during Euro 2024. In response to the allegations, he maintained his innocence and stated he cooperated fully with the police investigation. He also expressed disappointment at FIFA's decision not to appoint him to the World Cup squad. The case was eventually closed without charges, with the Metropolitan Police confirming that the evidentiary threshold was not met and no further action would be taken.