Rob Dieperink's Career and Recent Events
Rob Dieperink began refereeing in the Netherlands' top flight, the Eredivisie, in 2017. He was selected to serve as a video assistant referee (VAR) official at the 2024 World Cup but was removed from FIFA's list of officials in May 2024.
Police Investigation and World Cup Removal
In April 2024, Dieperink was arrested by the Metropolitan Police in London following a report of a sexual assault against a teenage boy. The incident was reported to have occurred at an address on Wellesley Road, Croydon. After a thorough investigation, which included gathering CCTV footage and examining digital devices, the police concluded that the evidential threshold had not been met, and no further action was taken.
The Metropolitan Police issued a statement:
"On Thursday, 9 April, officers responded to a report of a sexual assault against a teenage boy, which occurred at an address on Wellesley Road, Croydon. A man in his 30s was subsequently arrested on suspicion of sexual assault. Officers completed a thorough investigation and reviewed all available evidence, including gathering CCTV and examining digital devices. Following these enquiries, they concluded that the evidential threshold had not been met. No further action will be taken."
Following the investigation, FIFA removed Dieperink from the list of World Cup officials in May 2024.
Dieperink's Statement
After being dropped from the World Cup, Dieperink spoke to the Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf, expressing his feelings about the situation:
"It saddens me greatly that I have been wrongly accused. From the beginning, I have fully cooperated in the police investigation and also immediately gave full openness to FIFA, UEFA and the KNVB. I am grateful for the support I have received from the KNVB and the way in which they have dealt with this case. It is a pity that FIFA has decided not to appoint me for the World Cup any more, of course I am disappointed about that."
Death and Reactions
Rob Dieperink died weeks after his removal from the World Cup officiating list. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) issued a statement expressing their condolences:
"With Rob, we lose a highly valued referee, but above all a kind and dedicated colleague. Our thoughts go out to his family, friends, and everyone who held him dear. We wish them much strength and support in processing this great loss."
FIFA also released a statement:
"We learned of the news with great sadness. On behalf of the entire football community, we extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends and the Dutch Football Association. May he rest in peace."
Career Highlights
Dieperink had been a referee in the Eredivisie since 2017 and served as a VAR official at Euro 2024. Notably, he was the VAR for Crystal Palace's 3-0 Europa Conference League quarter-final first-leg win over Fiorentina on 9 April 2024.
