Online Reporter
DUTCH referee Rob Dieperink has died weeks after he was axed from the World Cup following his arrest over the alleged sexual assault of a teenager in the UK.
The 38-year-old’s death was confirmed by the Dutch Football Association, which said it was “shocked” by the news.
Dieperink’s cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
The referee was arrested back in April by the Metropolitan Police over allegations of sexual assault against a teenage boy in London.
The case was later dropped.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: “On Thursday, April 9, officers responded to a report of a sexual assault against a teenage boy, which occurred at an address on Wellesley Road, Croydon.
“A man in his 30s was subsequently arrested on suspicion of sexual assault.
“Officers completed a thorough investigation and reviewed all available evidence, including gathering CCTV and examining digital devices.
“Following these enquiries, they concluded that the evidential threshold had not been met. No further action will be taken.”
Fifa later confirmed that Dieperink had been removed from its list of World Cup officials.
Dieperink claimed that he had been “wrongly accused” and that he was “disappointed” to have missed the tournament.
He told De Telegraaf: “From the beginning, I have fully cooperated with the police investigation and also immediately provided full disclosure to Fifa, Uefa, and the KNVB.
“I am grateful for the support I have received from the KNVB and the way they have handled this matter.
“It is unfortunate that Fifa has decided not to appoint me for the World Cup anymore; I am naturally disappointed about that.”
The alleged incident happened ahead of a Uefa Conference League clash between Crystal Palace and Fiorentina in April.
He had flown to London for the midweek game and was detained in front of other UEFA officials when he returned.
Announcing his death in a statement, the Dutch FA said: “We are shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of referee Rob Dieperink.
“With Rob, the refereeing community loses a highly valued referee with international experience, but above all, a fine and dedicated colleague.
“Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and everyone who held him dear. We wish them much strength and support in coping with this great loss.”
Dieperink launched his professional refereeing career in 2012 and had been an Eredivisie official since 2017.
He served as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) during the 2024 Euros in Germany.
Dieperink officiated his final game – a friendly match between Go Ahead Eagles and Apollon FC – last Saturday -Sun.
