Dutch referee Rob Dieperink has died aged 38, weeks after the World Cup was lifted

Rob Dieperink (Image credit: KNVB) NEW DELHI: Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink has died at the age of 38, just weeks after he was dropped from FIFA’s list of officials for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Dieperink was selected to work as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) at the tournament, but was dismissed in May following a police investigation in Britain. The case was later closed for lack of evidence. The cause of his death has not been released.

Dutch football mourns Dieperink’s death

The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) paid tribute to Dieperink, describing him as a respected referee and colleague.“We are shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Rob Dieperink. With Rob’s passing, the football world has lost a highly respected referee with international experience, but above all we have lost a wonderful colleague.“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and all those who were dear to him. We wish them much strength and comfort as they cope with this great loss.”

FIFA expresses its condolences

Following the news of Dieperink’s death, FIFA also expressed its sympathies.“On behalf of the entire football community, we extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends and the Dutch Football Association. May he rest in peace.”Why Dieperink was removed from the FIFA World CupDieperink was arrested by London’s Metropolitan Police in April following a report that he had allegedly sexually assaulted a teenage boy.However, the investigation was later stopped due to lack of evidence.Following the decision to remove him from the FIFA World Cup officials list, Dieperink told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf that he had been “wrongly accused”.

Dieperink career

Dieperink began officiating in professional football during the 2011–12 season and officiated his first Eredivisie match at the end of 2017.He took charge of 284 professional matches during his career and built a strong reputation as a VAR official on the international stage.He was part of the national team at UEFA Euro 2024 and the Paris Olympics later that year. He also played regularly in European club competitions.Dieperink served as assistant VAR for the 2024 Europa League final between Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen and was appointed VAR for the FIFA Intercontinental Cup in Qatar in December 2024.