Former Premier League referee David Coote has been officially charged by the Football Association regarding remarks made in a video concerning former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp.
Coote was removed from his position by the refereeing organization PGMOL in December, approximately one month after the video gained widespread attention on social media.
UEFA imposed a ban on him in early 2025 due to allegations related to his behavior at Euro 2024 the previous summer. He is currently prohibited from officiating in European competitions until the conclusion of June 2026.
The FA has charged Coote with a violation of Rule E3, which pertains to derogatory remarks directed at Klopp, including references to the German’s nationality.
Although this issue surfaced in November 2024, the video is thought to have been filmed in the summer of 2020.
The accusation against Coote is that he “acted in an improper manner and/or used abusive and/or insulting language,” which contravenes Rule E3.1.
Additionally, there is a further allegation that his language represents an “aggravated breach,” as defined in Rule E3.2, due to the mention of Klopp’s nationality.
Nevertheless, allegations against Coote regarding gambling misconduct have not led to any charges after a comprehensive investigation into claims of yellow card spot-fixing during a Championship match between Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion in October 2019.
Coote concealed his sexual orientation throughout his refereeing career due to concerns about facing homophobic abuse, but he publicly came out following his dismissal from PGMOL. He also acknowledged that he had developed a drug issue as a means to “escape.”
In an interview with The Sun, he stated: “My sexuality isn’t the sole reason that led me to find myself in that situation.
However, I cannot convey an authentic narrative if I do not acknowledge that I am gay and that I have faced significant challenges in dealing with concealing that.”
When Coote was released from his position, PGMOL confirmed that it was still providing support: “David Coote’s actions were determined to be in serious violation of the terms of his employment contract.
Supporting David Coote remains a priority for us, and we are dedicated to his well-being.”
Earlier this month, Coote was captured on a video doorbell while he was working as a delivery driver.”
I want to move forward with my life,” he remarked to The Sun in reply.”
I am striving to progress and regain a sense of responsibility and purpose. The job is keeping me engaged and occupied, though it is not intended to be a new long-term career.”]} }}