2026 World Cup: Referee excluded from tournament found dead

Bad news from the Netherlands. Initially appointed as a video assistant referee for this 2026 World Cup, referee Rob Dieperink was ultimately excluded from the tournament.

This decision came after he became the subject of a criminal investigation by British authorities over allegations of sexual assault against a minor. Now, the Dutch Football Federation (KNVB) has announced that Dieperink has been found dead at his home in the Netherlands.

"We are shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Rob Dieperink. With Rob, we lose not only a respected referee, but above all a valued and dedicated colleague. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and everyone close to him. We wish them strength and courage as they face this immense loss," reads the statement published by the KNVB.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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