Rob Dieperink FIFA World Cup
Cloud TV Desk: Dutch referee Rob Dieperink has been removed from the list of match officials for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following allegations of sexual misconduct involving a minor in London. Dieperink had originally been selected as a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) for the upcoming tournament. However, the controversy surrounding the allegations has led FIFA to withdraw him from the official list.
The Dutch official has maintained that the case has already been closed by the Metropolitan Police, and that no formal charges were brought against him.
In a statement provided to New York-based outlet The Athletic, FIFA confirmed the decision, saying:
“Rob Dieperink has been removed from the FIFA World Cup match officials list.”
Despite the absence of formal charges, FIFA reportedly decided to replace Dieperink in order to avoid controversy ahead of football’s biggest tournament. French referee Willy Delajod is expected to take his place among the World Cup officials.
Dieperink is a regular referee in the Dutch top division, the Eredivisie, and has been regarded as one of the Netherlands’ experienced officials in recent years.
Following FIFA’s decision, the Royal Dutch Football Association publicly expressed full support for the referee. Dieperink himself described missing out on the World Cup as extremely unfortunate.
The decision has sparked debate within football circles. Some believe FIFA acted appropriately to protect the image of the tournament, while others argue that removing an official without proven wrongdoing raises concerns about fairness and due process.
As preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, FIFA appears determined to avoid any controversy involving tournament officials, especially on the global stage where scrutiny remains intense.
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