The football world is mourning the death of Dutch referee Rob Dieperink, who was found dead at the age of 38 just weeks after being removed from FIFA’s officiating team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His death has shocked the sport, coming shortly after an investigation into allegations of sexual assault that ultimately concluded without charges being filed.
While the cause of Dieperink’s death has not been disclosed, tributes have poured in from the Dutch Football Association (KNVB), FIFA, and members of the international football community, recognizing his contributions to the game over nearly a decade at the highest level.
Who was Rob Dieperink?
Rob Dieperink was one of the Netherlands’ most respected football officials.
He began officiating in the Eredivisie, the country’s top professional football league, in 2017 and built a reputation as a reliable referee and Video Assistant Referee (VAR) official.
His career milestones included:
- Refereeing in the Eredivisie since 2017.
- Serving as a VAR official during UEFA Euro 2024.
- Selection as a Video Assistant Referee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
His appointment to the World Cup officiating team reflected years of experience at both domestic and international levels.
Why was Dieperink removed from the FIFA World Cup?
According to reports, Dieperink was removed from FIFA’s 2026 World Cup VAR team after allegations of sexual assault involving a minor surfaced during the tournament’s preparation period.
The allegations led to an investigation by London’s Metropolitan Police.
Reports indicate that the investigation was later closed without sufficient evidence to proceed further.
Following the investigation, Dieperink publicly denied the allegations.
He stated that he had fully cooperated with investigators and had immediately informed FIFA, UEFA, and the KNVB about the situation.
Although the case was reportedly closed, he did not return to FIFA’s World Cup officiating team.
What have FIFA and the KNVB said?
The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) confirmed Dieperink’s death in an official statement.
The organization described him as both a respected referee and a valued colleague.
“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 association said.
FIFA also expressed condolences to Dieperink’s family and the Dutch football community.
The governing body said:
“On behalf of the entire football community, we extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends and the Dutch Football Association.”
Has the cause of death been announced?
No.
As of now, authorities have not publicly disclosed the cause of Dieperink’s death.
Officials have also not indicated whether his death is connected in any way to the earlier investigation.
Without confirmation from investigators or the family, any speculation about the circumstances surrounding his death would be premature.
A career marked by international recognition
Despite the controversy that interrupted his World Cup appointment, Dieperink had established himself as one of the Netherlands’ leading match officials.
His assignments in domestic competitions, European tournaments, and FIFA events reflected the confidence placed in him by football’s governing bodies.
His death at 38 has left colleagues and fans mourning the loss of an official whose career had reached the highest levels of international football.
Key takeaways
- Dutch referee Rob Dieperink has died at the age of 38.
- He had been selected as a VAR official for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- He was later removed following allegations of sexual assault involving a minor.
- Reports indicate the police investigation was closed without sufficient evidence to pursue the case.
- The cause of Dieperink’s death has not been made public.
- FIFA and the KNVB have issued statements expressing condolences.