Rob Dieperink, a veteran referee in the Dutch Eredivisie, has died at the age of 38.
Legal Fallout and Removal from FIFA List
Dieperink’s death follows a period of professional decline. Earlier this year, the KNVB removed him from the FIFA international refereeing list for the 2026 World Cup cycle. This decision came after he was arrested in the United Kingdom on suspicion of sexual assault.
According to reports from the BBC, the allegations involved the sexual assault of a teenager.
A Career Cut Short
His trajectory shifted abruptly following the legal developments in the UK.
Unanswered Questions in the Wake of Loss
As reported by RTE, the association has acknowledged the loss. To date, details regarding the cause of death have not been publicly disclosed by his family or the federation.
Summary of the Case
Identity: Rob Dieperink, 38, a professional football referee in the Netherlands.
Professional Status: Recently removed from the FIFA international list by the KNVB.
Legal Context: The KNVB’s decision to drop him followed his arrest in the United Kingdom related to allegations of sexual assault against a teenager.
