Dutch referee Rob Dieperink dies aged 38 weeks after World Cup omission

Dutch referee Rob Dieperink has died at the age of 38, weeks after being removed from FIFA's list of video assistant referees for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) confirmed his death in a statement, paying tribute to one of the country's most respected match officials. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

"We are shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Rob Dieperink. With Rob, we lose a highly valued referee, but above all, a kind and dedicated colleague," the KNVB said.

FIFA also expressed its condolences following the news.

"On behalf of the entire football community, we extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends and the Dutch Football Association. May he rest in peace," the world governing body said.

Dieperink had been selected as a video assistant referee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup but was removed from FIFA's officiating team a month before the tournament following allegations of sexual assault involving a minor.

According to reports, the investigation was later closed due to insufficient evidence. Dieperink had consistently denied the allegations.

"It saddens me greatly that I have been wrongly accused," he told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf after the claims emerged.

"From the beginning, I have fully cooperated with the police investigation and also immediately gave full openness to FIFA, UEFA and the KNVB."

Dieperink had officiated in the Eredivisie since 2017 and also served as a VAR official at UEFA Euro 2024. His omission from the World Cup was said to be a major disappointment after initially being named among FIFA's selected officials.

Tributes have continued to pour in from across the football community following news of his passing.

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