The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) has announced the passing of Rob Dieperink, a referee previously removed from FIFA’s list of officials for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Initially selected as a VAR for the tournament, Dieperink was taken off the roster in May following his arrest in April by the Metropolitan Police on accusations of sexual assault involving a teenage boy in London, as reported by The Athletic.
However, the Metropolitan Police later confirmed that the case was closed without charges, citing that the “evidential threshold had not been met,” and no further action would be pursued.
In a statement released on Monday, the KNVB expressed their profound sorrow at Dieperink’s untimely death, stating, “We are shocked and deeply saddened. With Rob’s passing, we lose a highly valued referee and, above all, a kind and dedicated colleague. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who cherished him during this difficult time.”
Rob Dieperink was arrested following a Europa Conference League match involving Crystal Palace and Fiorentina in south London on April 9.
He later spoke to the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, asserting he had been “wrongly accused” and expressing gratitude for the support he received from the KNVB while maintaining his cooperation with the police investigation. He also expressed disappointment over FIFA’s decision not to appoint him to the World Cup officiating team.
A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police detailed that the investigation into a reported sexual assault against a teenage boy led to Dieperink’s arrest, but evidence collected—including CCTV footage and examination of electronic devices—led to the conclusion that the evidential threshold was not met.