Dutch referee Rob Dieperink has been removed from FIFA’s officiating roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following his arrest in the United Kingdom over allegations of sexual assault involving a teenage boy, despite police later dropping the case due to insufficient evidence.
The 38-year-old official, who was expected to serve as a VAR referee during this summer’s tournament, was arrested after Crystal Palace’s UEFA Conference League clash against Fiorentina on April 9 while staying at a hotel in the UK.
The allegations quickly triggered widespread attention across European football, placing Dieperink’s future at the World Cup under serious doubt even as investigations continued.
Following a police inquiry, authorities confirmed that no charges would be filed against the Dutch referee after investigators found insufficient evidence to proceed with the case. Reports indicate the investigation was formally closed within two weeks.
Despite the case being dismissed, FIFA has now decided to remove Dieperink from its final list of match officials for the tournament, which begins on June 11 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Reacting publicly for the first time since the controversy emerged, Dieperink expressed disappointment over FIFA’s decision and maintained his innocence throughout the investigation.
“It deeply saddens me that I was falsely accused,” Dieperink said in an interview with Dutch outlet De Telegraaf.
“From the very beginning, I fully cooperated with the police investigation and also provided complete transparency to FIFA, UEFA, and the KNVB.”
“The allegations were disproven, and the case was dismissed after a thorough investigation by the police. Naturally, I am disappointed that FIFA no longer wants to appoint me for the World Cup.”
The Dutch Football Association also defended the referee, insisting there was no reason to block him from officiating domestically following the conclusion of the investigation.
In an official statement, the KNVB stressed the importance of maintaining integrity within football while also protecting individuals from being unfairly judged before investigations are concluded.
“We stand for a safe and ethical football culture and take every report of inappropriate behaviour seriously,” the statement read.
“At the same time, we believe individuals should have the opportunity to tell their side of the story and should not be wrongfully accused.”
The association confirmed that Dieperink had fully cooperated with authorities and remained transparent throughout the process.
Although cleared legally, FIFA’s decision highlights the growing pressure on football governing bodies to protect the image of major tournaments amid sensitive allegations involving match officials and players.
With the World Cup just weeks away, the incident has already become one of the most controversial off-field stories surrounding the tournament preparations.
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