Premier League referee David Coote has been dismissed by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) after an investigation into alleged misconduct.
The 42-year-old official was initially suspended on 11 November, pending a review of allegations that emerged from social media and subsequent reports.
The investigation was triggered by a video shared online, purportedly showing Coote making disparaging comments about Liverpool Football Club and their former manager Jürgen Klopp.
The remarks allegedly referred to a 1-1 Premier League match between Liverpool and Burnley in July 2020, during which Klopp had criticised Coote’s officiating.
Further controversy emerged when The Sun published images from the UEFA European Championship earlier this year, suggesting Coote was seen using a rolled-up US banknote to sniff a white powder.
These allegations prompted UEFA to suspend Coote while it conducted its own inquiry.
In a statement, PGMOL described Coote’s actions as a “serious breach” of his employment contract, rendering his position “untenable.” The organisation emphasised its commitment to supporting Coote’s welfare despite the termination.
“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.”
Additional Allegations Surface
On 27 November, the FA launched another investigation into claims that Coote had exchanged messages with a fan regarding a yellow card issued during a 2019 Championship match between Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion. Coote denied these claims, labelling them “false and defamatory.”
The FA’s review found no evidence of financial wrongdoing, and the booking of Leeds defender Ezgjan Alioski in that match was deemed appropriate.
Coote retains the right to appeal the PGMOL’s decision to terminate his employment. However, his professional standing has been significantly impacted by the series of allegations and subsequent investigations.
This high-profile case has raised concerns over the conduct and integrity of match officials, adding pressure on football governing bodies to ensure the highest standards of professionalism in the sport.
