Dutch referee Rob Dieperink dies at 38

Hupu Football News — July 13 — Top Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink has passed away at the age of 38. Weeks earlier, he was removed from the World Cup referee list after being arrested in the UK on suspicion of sexual assault.

The Dutch Football Association issued a statement today confirming Dieperink's death. According to Dutch daily newspaper Algemeen Dagblad, police are investigating a "death incident" on the street where Dieperink lived. The cause of death has not yet been announced.

Dieperink was originally scheduled to officiate at this summer's World Cup but was ultimately removed by FIFA. He had been arrested on suspicion of sexually assaulting a minor male, though the case was eventually dropped.

FIFA confirmed in a statement: "FIFA confirms that Rob Dieperink has been removed from the World Cup referee list."

The referee had previously stated that he was "very saddened" by the "false accusations" and felt "disappointed" about missing the World Cup.

Allegations and Arrest

Dieperink was accused of making inappropriate physical contact with a minor male and attempting to lure him to his hotel room before a UEFA Europa Conference League match between Crystal Palace and Fiorentina in April. He had flown in specifically to officiate that match.

He was arrested in front of other UEFA officials upon his return after traveling to officiate the midweek match.

Dutch Football Association Statement

Today's statement from the Dutch Football Association read:

"We are deeply shocked and saddened by the passing of referee Rob Dieperink. His loss means the refereeing community has lost a highly respected official with international experience, and more importantly, an excellent and dedicated colleague. We extend our condolences to his family, friends, and all who cherished him. May they find strength and support in the face of this great sorrow."

Case Dropped

The charges against Dieperink were dropped due to insufficient evidence.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said:

"On Thursday, April 9, officers received a report of a sexual assault against a minor male, which occurred on Wellesley Road in Croydon. Subsequently, a man in his 30s was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault.

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"Officers conducted a thorough investigation and reviewed all available evidence, including reviewing CCTV footage and examining electronic devices.

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"After completing these inquiries, the police determined that the evidence did not meet the threshold for prosecution. Therefore, no further action will be taken."

Dieperink's Response

Dieperink told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf:

"I am very saddened by the false accusations. I fully cooperated with the police investigation and immediately disclosed all relevant information to FIFA, UEFA, and the Dutch Football Association.

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"After a thorough and complete investigation by the police, the allegations were proven unfounded, and the case was dropped within two weeks.

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"I am grateful for the support from the Dutch Football Association and the way they handled the matter. Unfortunately, FIFA ultimately decided not to assign me to officiate at the World Cup, which I am naturally disappointed about."

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