Dutch referee Rob Dieperink dies at 38 after FIFA World Cup exclusion
Rob Dieperink, a 38‑year‑old Dutch football referee, was found dead in his home in Borculo, the Netherlands, on Monday 13 July 2026. The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) confirmed his death and said it was “shocked and deeply saddened” by the loss, describing him as a “highly valued referee and a kind, dedicated colleague.”
Dieperink had been selected by FIFA to serve as a video‑assistant referee (VAR) for the 2026 World Cup, but in May he was removed from the officials’ list after being arrested in London in April on suspicion of sexual assault involving a 17‑year‑old. The Metropolitan Police later closed the case without charges, citing insufficient evidence. Dieperink publicly expressed disappointment, stating he was “wrongly accused” and that he had fully cooperated with the police, FIFA, UEFA and the KNVB.
He had officiated in the Eredivisie since 2017, worked as a VAR at Euro 2024 and at the 2024 Olympic Games, and was regarded as an experienced international official. The cause of his death has not been disclosed, and Dutch authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances.