Premier League referee, David Coote, suspended for eight weeks due to remarks made about Jurgen Klopp
In a shocking turn of events, former Premier League referee David Coote has been suspended for eight weeks and ordered to attend an education program for abusive comments he made about Jürgen Klopp, the ex-Liverpool head coach [1][2]. The comments, which were deemed an aggravated breach under FA rules due to a reference to Klopp's nationality, led to Coote's dismissal by Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) in December 2020 [2].
The controversy began when a video emerged on social media in November 2020, showing Coote using offensive language to describe a Liverpool match and calling Klopp a "German ct" and "f*ing arrogant" [3]. In June, the English Football Association charged Coote over these comments [3].
Coote admitted to the charge and expressed deep regret for his actions, stating that his words did not reflect his true view of Klopp, for whom he had always had a deep professional respect [1]. He also acknowledged that his words were "crass, inappropriate, and unworthy of the role that he held within the game" [1].
The personal and professional consequences for Coote have been severe. In an interview, Coote revealed that he had struggled with his mental health and hiding his sexuality, which he believes contributed to his inappropriate behavior. He mentioned that his lifelong struggle to hide his sexuality, along with other personal issues, led to behaviors that included the rant about Klopp and substance use [2].
The situation has taken a toll on Coote's life. He was sacked by the PGMOL following his dismissal, and Howard Webb, the head of PGMOL, believes that Coote's return to refereeing is unlikely due to these incidents [4]. Despite the FA maintaining that Coote could potentially officiate again after serving his suspension and completing the required education program, his professional future remains uncertain [4].
Coote's case serves as a reminder that sports figures, including referees, can face significant personal and professional challenges that may impact their behavior and performance. The support and understanding of mental health issues within sports organizations are crucial for helping individuals navigate these challenges.
In January, David Coote publicly came out as gay in an interview with The Sun [5]. He is now trying to piece his life back together, from a place of near total collapse. The English Football Association did not take further action regarding separate allegations of gambling misconduct against Coote, as those allegations had been fully investigated [3].
Coote's ban does not end here, however. In February, another video emerged showing him snorting a white powder through a bank note while in Germany for last summer's Euros. This led to a ban by UEFA until June 30th, 2026 [6].
References:
- The Guardian
- BBC Sport
- The Independent
- The Telegraph
- The Sun
- ESPN
Following his suspension and ordered education program, former Premier League referee David Coote faces an uncertain professional future despite the English Football Association's potential allowance for his return to officiating. Moreover, Coote's involvement in European leagues is also under threat due to a separate ban by UEFA for misconduct, which extends until June 30th, 2026. His case underscores the importance of addressing personal challenges in sports, particularly mental health issues, to ensure the wellbeing and performance of sports figures like Coote.
