Banned World Cup referee Rob Dieperink dies aged 38: what was the cause of death?

Dutch referee Rob Dieperink has died at the age of 38, although the cause of his death has not been made public.

The Dutch official had been removed from FIFA’s shortlist for the 2026 World Cup just two months before the tournament after being arrested in England in connection with a case that was ultimately dismissed.

“We are shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Rob Dieperink. With Rob, we have lost a highly valued referee, but above all a kind and dedicated colleague,” the Royal Dutch Football Association said in a statement.

Why was Dieperink not at 2026 World Cup?

Dieperink had initially been selected by FIFA to serve as a VAR assistant at the World Cup. However, before officiating a UEFA Conference League match between Crystal Palace and Fiorentina, he was arrested by British police over an alleged sexual assault of a minor. The case was later dropped due to insufficient evidence.

“I am deeply saddened that I was wrongly accused. From the very beginning, I fully cooperated with the police investigation, as well as with FIFA, UEFA and the Federation,” Dieperink said in an interview with De Telegraaf, where he also spoke of his disappointment at being removed from the World Cup.

Dieperink had been a referee in the top tier of Dutch soccer since 2017 and was an international official who also worked at UEFA Euro 2024 and the Olympic Games.

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