FIFA removes Dutch referee Rob Dieperink from 2026 World Cup after investigation

Rob Dieperink has been removed from FIFA’s list of match officials for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following his arrest in London last month over allegations of sexual assault involving a teenage boy.

The Dutch referee, who had been selected to serve as a VAR official during the tournament, was taken into custody by the Metropolitan Police in April as part of an investigation linked to an alleged incident in Croydon.

Authorities reviewed CCTV footage and examined digital devices during the investigation.

However, police confirmed on Friday that the case had been closed after investigators determined that the evidential threshold required for further action had not been met.

Despite the case being dismissed, FIFA confirmed to The Athletic that Dieperink will no longer be part of the officiating team for the World Cup.

According to reports, French referee Willy Delajod is expected to replace him on the tournament roster.

Dieperink reacts to FIFA decision

Rob Dieperink expressed disappointment over the decision in comments to Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf.

“It makes me very sad that I have been wrongly accused,” Dieperink said.

“I fully cooperated with the police investigation and gave full openness to FIFA, UEFA, and the KNVB.”

“The allegations were refuted, and the case was dismissed within two weeks.”

“It is a pity that FIFA has decided not to appoint me for the World Cup,” he added.

Dutch FA backs referee after investigation closes

The Royal Dutch Football Association also issued a statement supporting Dieperink, stressing that the referee had been transparent throughout the process and that the police investigation cleared him of wrongdoing.

“We stand for a safe and honest football culture at all levels and always take reports of unwanted behavior seriously,” the federation stated.

“Based on all available information, we see no reason not to appoint him for matches in the Dutch league.”

Despite the support, the Dutch FA confirmed that Dieperink will not officiate any matches this weekend due to the impact of the media attention surrounding the case.

“Given the news and its effect on Rob, we are removing him from the weekend lineup in his best interest and the interest of the match,” the statement added.

FIFA yet to explain decision publicly

So far, FIFA has not publicly detailed the specific reasons behind its decision to remove Dieperink from the World Cup officiating panel following the closure of the investigation.

The development comes as preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada and Mexico.