Tragic Loss: Dutch Referee Dieperink Dies Post-World Cup Withdrawal

Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink, aged 38, has tragically passed away just weeks after being removed from the list of officials slated for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Dieperink, who had been appointed as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for the prestigious tournament, was withdrawn by FIFA in May following a police investigation in the United Kingdom.

The Metropolitan Police arrested Dieperink in April after receiving a report alleging a sexual assault involving a teenage boy. However, the investigation was subsequently closed due to insufficient evidence, a detail Dieperink himself highlighted, maintaining he had been wrongly accused and had fully cooperated with the inquiry.

The Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) expressed profound shock and sadness upon learning of his death. In a heartfelt statement, the KNVB mourned the loss of a highly valued referee and a kind, dedicated colleague, extending their thoughts to his family, friends, and all who held him dear. The cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed.

Throughout his career, Dieperink was a respected figure in football officiating. He had been a referee in the Eredivisie since 2017 and was an integral part of the VAR team at Euro 2024. His involvement also extended to significant European competitions, including a match in April where he served during Crystal Palace’s 3-0 Europa Conference League quarter-final first-leg victory over Fiorentina.