Rob Dieperink was arrested in a London hotel on 9 April 2026 while serving as VAR for Crystal Palace’s Conference League match against Fiorentina, following allegations of sexual assault involving a 17-year-old boy. Police questioned him over suspected offences, but within two weeks the investigation was closed for lack of evidence and no charges were filed. Despite this legal clearance, FIFA removed him from the 2026 World Cup officiating list, with French referee Willy Delajod identified as his replacement.
"It saddens me greatly that I have been wrongly accused. From the start, I have fully cooperated with the police investigation and also immediately provided full transparency to FIFA, UEFA, and the KNVB. The allegations have been refuted and the case was dismissed within two weeks following an adequate and thorough investigation by the police", said Rob Dieperink. The KNVB stated there was no reason to prevent Dieperink from officiating in the Eredivisie after the case was dropped, highlighting his full cooperation with authorities and football bodies. However, the association replaced him in a weekend Eredivisie fixture due to media attention and its potential impact on the match. FIFA has confirmed his removal from the World Cup list but has not provided further public comment on the decision. Dieperink has built a 14-year career in Dutch professional football, debuting in the Eredivisie in 2017 and serving as VAR at Euro 2025 and the Olympic football tournament. His exclusion from the World Cup roster ends what would have been another high-profile assignment. UEFA has also opted not to assign him further matches following the London arrest and its aftermath. The case underscores how major sports bodies may act to protect tournament image even after legal proceedings are resolved without charges. FIFA’s decision reflects a cautious approach to potential controversy during the World Cup. Similar scenarios could influence how future officiating appointments weigh both investigative outcomes and broader reputational considerations.
Source: MSN