David Coote, a Premier League referee, was sacked after being filmed using offensive language and allegedly snorting white powder. He is also under investigation by the Football Association for misconduct related to a 2019 match. Coote, who joined the Premier League in 2018, could face further charges.
Premier League referee David Coote has been dismissed following a series of scandals that came to light recently. Coote, 42, was first filmed in a video last month using derogatory language, calling former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp a "German c***." Shortly after, another video emerged showing Coote apparently snorting a white powder at Euro 2024. These incidents prompted an internal investigation, leading to the termination of his employment with the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL).
A statement from PGMOL confirmed that Coote's actions were a serious breach of his contract, rendering his position untenable. However, the statement also expressed support for Coote’s well-being, noting that he has the right to appeal the decision.
In addition to the video scandals, Coote is under investigation by the Football Association (FA) for allegedly discussing issuing a yellow card before a Championship game between Leeds and West Brom in 2019. Coote has denied these allegations. The FA is also conducting a separate inquiry into his comments about Klopp, which could lead to further charges of misconduct.
Coote, who became a Premier League referee in 2018, now faces significant repercussions from both PGMOL and the FA following the various controversies
