Premier League Referee David Coote Sacked After Investigation

Premier League referee David Coote has been sacked by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited, PGMOL, following a thorough investigation into his recent videos shared online.

Earlier last month, a video surfaced showing Coote, 42, making derogatory remarks about Liverpool and their former manager, Jurgen Klopp, which led to his initial suspension. Later in November, a separate clip was released that appeared to show him snorting a white powder in a hotel room while officiating at last summer’s Euros. You can check the video in the article below.

The PGMOL has now taken a thorough investigation into David Coote’s misconduct and has today decided to terminate his employment contract with immediate effect as stated in a release by the referee bodies.

‘Following the conclusion of a thorough investigation into David Coote's conduct, his employment with PGMOL has been terminated today with immediate effect. ‘David Coote’s actions were found to be in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract, with his position deemed untenable. Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us, and we remain committed to his welfare. David Coote has a right to appeal the decision to terminate his employment.’

A statement from the refs’ body PGMOL said:

Coote's first Premier League game as a referee was in 2018, and then he subsequently joined the elite Select Group of referees. The peak of his officiating career occurred in 2023 when he officiated the Carabao Cup final between Manchester United and Newcastle. Coote has the right to appeal the referee body's decision to terminate his employment, according to the PGMOL.

The Football Association is investigating allegations that Coote discussed betting on giving a yellow card before a match in England’s second-tier Championship with a fan. Coote has denied these allegations.