A Premier League referee, David Coote, has been dismissed by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) following a “thorough investigation” into multiple allegations against him.
Coote, however, retains the right to appeal the decision.
In a statement on Monday, December 9, 2024, titled “Statement—David Coote,” the PGMOL confirmed the termination of his employment, citing “serious breaches” of his contract that rendered his position “untenable.”
“David Coote’s actions were found to be in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract,” the statement read.
“Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us, and we remain committed to his welfare.”
Allegations, investigations
The controversy began in early November when Coote was suspended by the PGMOL after a video circulated online allegedly showing him making derogatory remarks about Liverpool and their former manager, Jürgen Klopp.
The video reportedly referred to Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Burnley in July 2020, a match officiated by Coote. Klopp had criticised Coote’s refereeing decisions post-match, leading to backlash at the time.
Adding to the storm, a report by The Sun on November 13 published images allegedly showing the 42-year-old using a white powder during the summer’s European Championship.
PGMOL described the allegations as “very serious” and launched a further probe.
UEFA also suspended Coote, initiating its own investigation into his conduct.
|SituationReport|
