Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink has passed away at the age of 38, just weeks after being removed from FIFA’s list of officials for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His death has sent shockwaves through the global football community. While the exact cause of death has not been disclosed, tributes have poured in from football governing bodies and colleagues who remembered him as a respected official and dedicated professional.
Dieperink had been selected to serve as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) at the FIFA World Cup 2026 before FIFA removed him from the tournament’s officiating roster in May. The decision followed his arrest by Britain’s Metropolitan Police in April over an allegation of sexual assault involving a teenage boy. However, the investigation was later dropped due to insufficient evidence. Following his removal, Dieperink publicly maintained his innocence, stating in an interview with Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf that he had been “wrongly accused.”
The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) expressed profound grief over his passing, describing Dieperink as a highly respected referee with extensive international experience. In an official statement, the association said it was “shocked and deeply saddened” by his death, adding that football had lost not only an accomplished match official but also a valued colleague. The KNVB extended its condolences to his family, friends, and everyone close to him during this difficult time.
FIFA also paid tribute to Dieperink, offering its heartfelt condolences to his loved ones and the Dutch football community. The world governing body acknowledged his contribution to the sport and wished him eternal peace, joining the growing list of organizations mourning his untimely passing.
Rob Dieperink began officiating in Dutch professional football during the 2011-12 season and made his Eredivisie refereeing debut in 2017. Over the course of his career, he officiated 284 professional matches and earned a reputation as one of the Netherlands’ most reliable referees. His expertise also saw him become a regular VAR official in major international competitions.
Among the highlights of his career, Dieperink served on the officiating teams for UEFA Euro 2024 and the Olympic Games in the same year. He also worked on several European club competitions, including the 2024 UEFA Europa League final between Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen, where he served as assistant VAR. Later that year, he was appointed as a VAR official for the FIFA Intercontinental Cup in Qatar, further cementing his standing within international football.
Dieperink’s sudden passing marks a tragic loss for football, with many remembering him for his professionalism, calm decision-making, and commitment to the game throughout a distinguished officiating career.