Rob Dieperink: Referee dropped from World Cup 2026 dies at age of 38
A referee who was dropped from Fifa’s list of officials for World Cup 2026 has died, the Dutch federation (KNVB) announced.
Rob Dieperink had been selected as a VAR for this summer’s tournament but was “removed from the list” of World Cup officials in May, Fifa said.
Dieperink, 38, was arrested by the Metropolitan Police in April following an allegation of sexual assault against a teenage boy in London, The Athletic reported.
The case was closed without charges being filed. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the “evidential threshold had not been met” and said no further action would be taken.
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Rob Dieperink,” a statement from the KNVB said on Monday.
“With Rob, we lose a highly valued referee, but above all a kind and dedicated colleague.
“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.”
Dieperink was arrested following a Europa Conference League match between Crystal Palace and Fiorentina in south London on Thursday 9 April.
He later told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf that he had been “wrongly accused”.
“From the beginning, I have fully cooperated with the police investigation and also immediately provided full disclosure to Fifa, Uefa, and the KNVB,” he said.
“I am grateful for the support I have received from the KNVB and the way they have handled this matter.
“It is unfortunate that Fifa has decided not to appoint me for the World Cup anymore, I am naturally disappointed about that.”
In May, a Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: “On Thursday, 9 April, officers responded to a report of a sexual assault against a teenage boy, which occurred at an address on Wellesley Road, Croydon. A man in his 30s was subsequently arrested on suspicion of sexual assault.
“Officers completed a thorough investigation and reviewed all available evidence, including gathering CCTV and examining digital devices. Following these enquiries, they concluded that the evidential threshold had not been met. No further action will be taken.”
